A 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck the Tonga Islands on Sunday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake, which occurred at a shallow depth, was centered 90 kilometres (56 miles) southeast of Pangai village, with warnings extending to the nearby island nation of Niue.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre issued an alert, warning that tsunami waves between 0.3 to 1 metre above tide level could impact the coasts of Tonga and Niue. Earlier, authorities cautioned that hazardous tsunami waves could affect areas within 300 kilometres of the epicentre.
In response, Tonga&rsquo;s National Disaster Risk Management Office urged residents in low-lying coastal areas to move to higher ground or further inland as a precaution.
As of now, no immediate reports of damage or casualties have emerged.
Tonga&rsquo;s Seismic Vulnerability
Tonga, a Polynesian kingdom in the South Pacific, consists of over 170 islands known for their white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and tropical rainforests. However, it sits along the Pacific &lsquo;Ring of Fire&rsquo;, a highly active seismic zone prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity.
This quake follows a recent surge in seismic activity in the region. On Friday, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar near Mandalay, causing widespread destruction, building collapses, and infrastructure damage, including at the city&rsquo;s airport.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation, urging residents to stay alert for aftershocks and further tsunami developments.

Tsunami warning issued, residents in low-lying areas urged to find higher ground

7.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Tonga

Tsunami warning issued, residents in low-lying areas urged to find higher ground

March 31, 2025 | 01:30 IST