• Source:JND
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A powerful 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck the Polynesian island nation of Tonga on Sunday, according to the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ). Initially reported as a 6.6-magnitude tremor, the earthquake occurred at a depth of 16 km (10 miles). The seismic event has prompted a tsunami warning from the Pacific Tsunami Warning System, which cautioned that hazardous waves could impact coastal areas within 300 km of the epicenter.

The US Geological Survey (USGS) also confirmed the earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1 and occurred at a depth of around 10 km (6.2 miles) beneath the Earth's surface. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued an advisory for Tonga and surrounding regions, warning of potentially dangerous waves reaching heights of 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 feet) above sea level. Residents in coastal areas were urged to evacuate immediately and move to higher ground as a precautionary measure.

Authorities in Tonga responded swiftly by warning residents to stay away from beaches and shorelines. The Tonga National Disaster Risk Management Office issued a statement on Facebook urging those in low-lying coastal areas to relocate further inland. “People living in the low-lying coastal areas, please move to higher grounds or further inland,” the statement read. Despite the alert, there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

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Tectonic Activity In Pacific Region

Tonga, a nation comprising more than 170 islands, is highly prone to seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire. This geologically active zone extends through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific Basin, making it one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world. The country, home to approximately 100,000 people, has experienced frequent tremors and tsunamis in the past.

Tonga’s vulnerability to natural disasters was highlighted in January 2022 when the massive Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption triggered a devastating tsunami, affecting coastal communities and causing widespread damage. 

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