Powerful Earthquake Strikes Near Tonga; Coastal Evacuation Warnings Issued

Kathmandu. Following a powerful earthquake near Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean, local authorities have issued warnings for coastal areas to evacuate. Although the 7.6 magnitude earthquake spread regional fear, it has been reported that there is no major damage or tsunami threat so far.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred on Tuesday evening at approximately 237 kilometers deep according to local time. While shallow earthquakes are generally felt more intensely, it is estimated that the surface impact was somewhat limited due to the greater depth of this quake.

The epicenter of the earthquake was reported to be about 153 kilometers west of Tonga's second-largest city, Neiafu, in the sea. Initial reports have not confirmed any major damage or casualties.

Tonga's National Disaster Risk Management Office has directed residents in low-lying coastal areas to immediately move to higher ground or inland areas. The office urged people to stay away from beaches, shorelines, and low-altitude locations, and advised them to remain vigilant until the situation normalizes.

However, the USGS has not issued a formal tsunami warning following this earthquake. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii also stated that there is no tsunami risk because the earthquake was deep.

Tonga is an archipelago located in Polynesia. It consists of 171 islands and is home to over one hundred thousand people. Most people live on the main island, Tongatapu. The earthquake on Tuesday was centered near the Ha'apai island group.

A person at the Tanoa International Dateline Hotel in Nuku'alofa, Tongatapu, reported experiencing shaking in the building due to the earthquake but no other damage. "The whole building shook, but everyone is safe," he said.

The police have not yet given an official response, and a detailed assessment is still ongoing. Tonga lies in the 'Pacific Ring of Fire' region, where most of the world's earthquakes and volcanic activity occur. In 2022, three people died due to a tsunami caused by a volcanic eruption here.

New Zealand's disaster management agency clarified that there is no tsunami risk to their country following this earthquake near Tonga, which is located about 1,800 kilometers northeast of New Zealand.