Tonga: Magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake strikes South Pacific Ocean around 06:24 TOT Oct. 29

Event

A magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake occurred in the South Pacific Ocean near northern Tonga and Samoa 06:24 Oct. 29. The epicenter was about 122 km (75 miles) east northeast of Hihifo, Tonga. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6.21 miles); significant damage is unlikely as the earthquake happened in a remote area of the South Pacific Ocean. The temblor has not triggered a tsunami warning.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

Advice

Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.