Tsunami Alert Issued After 7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Tonga

Tags: Tonga Earthquake, Tsunami Warning, Pacific Seismic Activity, USGS, Pacific Tsunami Warning Center

Powerful Earthquake Hits Near Tonga

A 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Tonga, triggering a tsunami warning for the Pacific island nation.

Earthquake Details and Tsunami Threat

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurred approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) northeast of Tonga’s main island in the early hours of Monday local time. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued an alert, warning that hazardous waves could impact coastal areas within 300 kilometers (185 miles) of the epicenter.

Current Impact and Location

As of now, no immediate reports of damage or casualties have been received. Tonga, an island country in Polynesia, consists of 171 islands and has a population of just over 100,000 people, most of whom reside on Tongatapu, the main island. The nation is located more than 3,500 kilometers (2,000 miles) east of Australia and is prone to seismic activity due to its position along the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation for any further developments.