A strong earthquake measuring a preliminary 6.6 magnitude struck the South Pacific island nation of Tonga on Monday, but there were no immediate reports of damage or tsunami warnings. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake occurred at 9:47 a.m. local time, with its epicenter located 198 kilometers (123 miles) north of the capital city of Nuku’alofa, at a depth of 112 kilometers (70 miles). The Hawaii-based Pacific Warning Center has stated that there is no risk of a tsunami resulting from the earthquake. Located within the seismically active “Ring of Fire” around the Pacific Ocean, Tonga is prone to experiencing significant seismic and volcanic activity.
Strong Earthquake Strikes Tonga, No Tsunami Warnings or Damage Reported
