Massive 7.1 magnitude earthquake strikes Tonga Country in Polynesia

A powerful magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck the Tonga Islands on Sunday, according to the United States Geological Survey. The shallow quake, which occurred 90 kilometers (56 miles) southeast of the village of Pangai, has prompted tsunami warnings in the region, extending as far as Niue.

The United States Tsunami Warning Center cautioned that tsunami waves could rise between 0.3 and 1 meter above the tide level along affected coastlines, and noted that hazardous waves are possible up to 300 kilometers from the quake’s epicenter. In response, local authorities urged residents in low-lying coastal areas to seek higher ground or move further inland, as stated by the Tonga National Disaster Risk Management Office on social media.

Despite the intensity of the tremor, there have been no immediate reports of significant damage or casualties. Tonga, a Polynesian kingdom comprising more than 170 islands, is known for its picturesque white sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush tropical rainforests. The region lies along the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire—a zone notorious for frequent earthquakes.

This recent seismic event follows a series of tremors in the South Pacific area, underscoring the ongoing geological instability in the region. In a related development, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Mandalay, Myanmar on Friday, causing considerable damage to buildings and infrastructure, including the city's airport.