Tsunami warning for Tonga after 7.1m earthquake hits nearby Pacific island country

Staff Writers
AP
An earthquake has hit near Tonga but it is too early to know the extent of any damage. (EPA PHOTO)
An earthquake has hit near Tonga but it is too early to know the extent of any damage. (EPA PHOTO) Credit: AAP

A strong 7.1 magnitude earthquake has hit near Tonga, and a tsunami warning has been issued for the Pacific island country.

The US Geological Survey said the temblor hit about 100 kilometres northeast of the main island in the early morning hours of Monday local time.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre issued an alert saying hazardous waves could be possible along coasts located within 300 kilometres of the epicentre.

Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.

Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.

Email Us
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

No reports of damage were immediately available.

Tonga is a country in Polynesia made up of 171 islands with a population of a little more than 100,000 people, most of whom live on the main island of Tongatapu.

It is more than 3,500 kilometres off of Australia’s east coast.

Originally published on AP

Comments

Latest Edition

The Nightly cover for 01-04-2025

Latest Edition

Edition Edition 1 April 20251 April 2025

Trump’s looming tariff barrage stuns RBA and hijacks Australian election.