South Pacific: Magnitude 7.1 earthquake strikes southeast of the Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia May 20

Event

A severe magnitude-7.1 earthquake occurred southeast of the Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia, at around 12:51 NCT May 20. Significant damage and casualties are possible. Hazardous waves are possible for coastal locations within 300 km (186 miles) of the earthquake epicenter.

This is a developing situation; additional information will be issued as warranted.

Advice

Vacate multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Move away from the immediate coastline as a precaution due to the potential for hazardous waves.