10 Feb 2021 | 09:55 PM UTC
Pacific Ocean: Tsunami threat lifted in most areas after Feb. 11 magnitude-7.7 earthquake near Loyalty Islands /update 2
Tsunami threat lifted in most areas after Feb. 11 magnitude-7.7 earthquake near Loyalty Islands; strong currents possible in New Zealand.
Event
The US National Weather Service's Tsunami Warning System has lifted its regional threat warning following a magnitude-7.7 earthquake that occurred southeast of the Loyalty Islands at around 0220 Feb. 11. Nevertheless, authorities in New Zealand have warned of potentially strong and unusual currents along the northern shores of the North Island through early Feb. 11. Officials in Australia are also watching potential tsunami activity in Lord Howe Island. In both New Zealand's North Island and Lord Howe Island, officials say there is no specific threat to areas besides beaches, estuaries, rivers, and the ocean, and that evacuations are unnecessary. Minor tsunami waves of up to 0.78 meters (2.6 feet) have been reported in parts of the Pacific.
The epicenter of the earthquake was about 525 km (326 miles) east-southeast of Noumea, New Caledonia. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate shaking was felt in some nearby areas. There have been no reports of major damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. Several aftershocks have occurred and further seismic activity is likely in the region in the coming days.
Advice
Monitor local media for updates and advisories from the local authorities. Residents in coastal areas should avoid beaches and maritime transportation as a precaution until local warnings are lifted. Consider vacating multistoried buildings or unreinforced structures in any areas where strong shaking occurred; aftershocks could cause additional damage.
