Nuku’alofa: A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck 90 kilometers southeast of the village of Pangai in Tonga, as reported by the US Geological Survey (USGS) on Saturday. The tremor occurred at 3:18 a.m. local time (1218GMT).
According to Anadolu Agency, the earthquake was initially recorded as a magnitude 7.3 but was later downgraded to 7.1. The quake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, which has the potential to cause significant surface shaking. Despite the strength of the quake, there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties, and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed that no tsunami warning was issued.
The area is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for frequent seismic activity due to tectonic plate boundaries. This geological setting often results in powerful earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Local authorities in Tonga have yet to release an official statement, but monitoring agencies in the region continue to evaluate the situation and its potential impact.