A tsunami warning has been issued after a powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Tonga, a Pacific island nation, on Sunday. The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, was reported by the US Geological Survey (USGS).
According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, the dangerous tsunami waves could affect coastal areas falling in 300 kilometers of the epicenter of the earthquake. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and urging residents to remain vigilant for further updates.
This earthquake is a part of a recent series of seismic activities in the region, underscoring the ongoing geological volatility of the South Pacific area, according to a report by TOI.
Tonga, a Polynesian nation consisting of 171 islands, has a population of just over 100,000, with most residents living on the main island of Tongatapu. The country is located more than 3,500 kilometers (2,000 miles) east of Australia.
7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Jolts Myanmar
Similarly, a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit the central Myanmar city of Mandalay on Friday (March 28), killing several, and it also sent strong tremors in neighbouring Thailand, claiming 3 lives. The next day, another tremor of magnitude 5.1 jolted on Saturday.
According to the USGS, the fresh seismic activity was recorded around 2:50 pm near Myanmar’s capital, Naypyidaw, at a depth of 10 kilometres. The extent of damage or casualties from Saturday’s quake remains unclear. The tremor hit as authorities were working to repair roads and restore essential services, including electricity, phone, and internet connectivity, which remained disrupted across most of the capital.
The worst-hit area was Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city, home to around 1.5 million people. Buildings, bridges, historical sites, and other public infrastructure suffered severe damage.
Myanmar, which is already grappling with a prolonged civil war, is facing additional challenges in its relief operations due to the ongoing conflict. The earthquake, which struck near Mandalay, triggered landslides, caused bridges to collapse, and even burst a dam.
