The South American country was rocked by a large tremor measuring 8.3 on the Richter scale, and around a million victims were ordered to evacuate their homes. The quake also prompted a slew of tsunami alerts for the entire Chilean coast as well as Peru, Hawaii and parts of California.

A number of stars have now sent their thoughts and prayers to those caught up in the chaos.

Spanish actor Banderas, who stars in new movie The 33 about the 2010 Chilean mining disaster, writes in a post on Twitter.com, "All the strength for my Chilean brothers to this new onslaught of nature (sic)."

Messing writes, "Praying you all stay safe #chile," while reality TV star Khloe Kardashian adds, "Heartfelt thoughts and prayers for everybody in Chile that's been affected by this devastating earthquake... May God bless you."

Actress Marlee Matlin posts, "My thoughts and prayers go out to the people of #Chile affected by the earthquake and tsunami," Magic Mike star Matt Bomer adds, "Thoughts and prayers going out to all those in Chile affected by the earthquake," and veteran pop star Debbie Gibson writes, "Thinking of all my friends in Chile! Hope you are all safe. Love to all the beautiful people in that beautiful part of the world!"