“Tsunami Alert Lifted Following 7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Near Tonga”
An earthquake measuring 7.0 on the Richter scale struck near Tonga’s coast early on Monday, triggering a tsunami warning which has since been canceled. The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the quake occurred approximately 62 miles northeast of Tongatapu’s main island at 1:18 a.m. local time. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued the alert, which was later withdrawn about an hour after the seismic event. Residents were advised not to return home by the Tonga Meteorological Services, as reported by local news outlet Talanoa o Tonga. The region experienced six aftershocks, all with magnitudes exceeding 4.5, according to the USGS. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of damage. This earthquake in Tonga follows closely after a devastating 7.7 magnitude quake in Myanmar, causing significant loss of life and destruction. The Red Cross has expressed concerns over the situation’s severity and potential humanitarian challenges.
