Tonga has issued a tsunami warning after a strong 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck west of Neiafu on Tuesday evening (local time), March 24. The National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO), alongside the Tonga Meteorological Services, asked residents to evacuate beaches and homes in low-lying coastal zones.
An earthquake of magnitude 7.6 struck approximately 153 kilometres west of Neiafu at a depth of 237.5 kilometres at 5:37 pm, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). According to reports, the quake depth may reduce the likelihood of severe surface damage.
Also Read | Earthquake in Tonga Island: Strong Quake of Magnitude 7.6 Hits Neiafu.
Officials say there is a risk that a tsunami could hit coastal regions. The Tonga government asked emergency services to be on alert. Communities asked to stay away from low-lying areas until an official “all clear” is issued. Tonga is situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, a region prone to frequent seismic activity and undersea earthquakes capable of generating tsunamis.
The US Consulate in Tonga urged American citizens to immediately take shelter as a dangerous tsunami could occur in minutes. Asked citizens to evacuate immediately inland to high ground or to the 3rd level of a steel or concrete building until the threat has passed. Mariners are advised to move to the deep ocean away from reefs.