A strong 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit near Tonga early Monday, sparking tsunami warnings across the Pacific. The quake’s epicenter was about 100 km (62 miles) northeast of Tonga’s main island, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Initial reports from Germany’s GFZ center estimated the quake at 6.6 magnitude, but the USGS later upgraded it to 7.1. The shallow depth of just six miles raised concerns, as quakes near the surface often cause stronger shaking and increase tsunami risks. For comparison, the deadly 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was triggered by a quake at 18 miles deep.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center alerted areas within 300 km (185 miles) of the epicenter, warning of possible dangerous waves. So far, no major damage has been reported, likely because the quake struck in the early hours. However, over 2,000 people reported feeling the tremors, ranging from mild to intense shaking.
Fiji and Niue were also affected. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirmed a “credible” tsunami threat for nearby regions. Landslide risks remain low, and few people were directly exposed to danger.
Australia has assured its mainland faces no tsunami threat. Tonga, a nation of 171 islands, lies more than 3,500 km (2,000 miles) from Australia’s east coast. Forecasts suggest tsunami waves of 0.3 to 1 meter could hit Tonga and Niue, while smaller waves (under 30 cm) may reach the Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa, and American Samoa.
This quake follows another disaster—Friday’s 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, which has killed over 1,600 people. Rescue teams are still searching for survivors as the death toll climbs.
Tonga is still recovering from the 2022 Hunga Tonga volcanic eruption, the largest atmospheric explosion ever recorded. The eruption blanketed islands in ash and reshaped the seabed. With its history of seismic events, Tonga remains highly vulnerable to natural disasters.
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