Tonga earthquake: Massive 7.1 magnitude earthquake triggers tsunami warning in American Samoa

A massive 7.5 magnitude earthquake rocked the Pacific Ocean, resulting in a tsunami warning.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center reports that the tremor hit the water roughly 130 miles southeast of Tonga, and tsunami concerns have been raised for American Samoa (PTWC).





Tsunami waves coming as a result of the earthquake were probable within 300 kilometres of the epicentre along the shores of Niue and Tonga, according to the report.

According to the USGS, the quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres. However, it had been claimed elsewhere at a depth of 24 kilometres.

What have locals said?

On Friday morning, a local woman wrote on social media that she was relocating north and to higher ground. 'Please keep safe, drive carefully, and keep an eye out for one another,' it stated. 'If I believed I'd never have to endure another Jan 15th tragedy, climate change has proved me incorrect - let's keep #Tonga in our thoughts and prayers.'

Another user on social media reported 'shaking for roughly 3-5 minutes from the 7.5 earthquakes in Tonga. Thank you for the warning, Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. American Samoa is presently under a tsunami warning,' he stated.

FAQ

How has climate change rocked Tonga?
In January, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake rocked Tonga, causing a tsunami that killed at least three people and destroyed properties across the country. It happened just two weeks after a massive volcanic explosion rocked the nation.

Where is Tonga located?
Tonga is a South Pacific archipelago located just south of Samoa.