Nukualofa: A strong earthquake measuring 7.6 in magnitude struck near the Pacific island nation of Tonga on Tuesday, causing concern among residents but no major damage or casualties have been reported so far.
According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake occurred deep under the ocean at a depth of about 237 kilometres. Its epicentre was located roughly 150 kilometres west of Neiafu, a town in northern Tonga.
People in the capital, Nuku’alofa, felt strong shaking, prompting many to move out of buildings as a precaution. Authorities also advised residents in coastal areas to move to higher ground shortly after the tremor.
However, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center later confirmed that there was no tsunami threat because the earthquake occurred too deep beneath the earth’s surface to generate large sea waves.
Emergency agencies in nearby countries including New Zealand and Australia monitored the situation closely and confirmed there was no risk to their coastlines.
Tonga lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the most active earthquake zones in the world, where earthquakes and volcanic activity are common. Experts say the depth of this quake helped reduce its impact on the surface.
Local authorities continue to assess the situation, but early reports suggest that the country has avoided serious damage despite the strength of the earthquake.