Tsunami Warning Lifted After 7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Near Tonga

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 struck near Tonga, causing initial concerns of a tsunami. The US Geological Survey reported the quake occurred at a depth of 29 kilometres, approximately 100 kilometres northeast of the main island, early Monday morning local time. A subsequent quake of magnitude 6.1 followed in the same region hours later.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii initially issued a tsunami alert following the first tremor, warning of potential hazardous waves. However, this threat was later dismissed. Similarly, Tonga's disaster management office also lifted its warning hours after issuing it.

Response and Reactions

Following the first quake at 1:18 am, tsunami sirens were activated, urging residents to move inland. A live broadcast by Tongan Broadcasting Corp showed people in Nukualofa heading to safer areas before officials declared it safe to return home. No casualties were initially reported, and communication with most inhabited islands remained intact.

Tongan taekwondo athlete Pita Taufatofua shared his experience on Facebook, describing how items fell from shelves and walls during the tremors. "Was hard to stand up," he noted, adding that he had never experienced such prolonged shaking before.

Geographical Context and Recent History

Tonga is a Polynesian country comprising 171 islands with a population exceeding 100,000, primarily residing on Tongatapu, the main island. Located 1,800 km northeast of New Zealand, Tonga lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity.

The nation faced devastation in 2022 when a volcanic eruption triggered a tsunami that resulted in three fatalities. The recent quakes have raised concerns about potential damage, though none was immediately reported. Assessments are expected to be conducted in daylight.

Despite the initial fears and disruptions caused by the earthquakes, the situation in Tonga appears stable for now. Residents have returned to their homes after the all-clear was given by authorities.