11 Aug 2023 | 12:33 AM UTC
New Zealand: Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs in the Cook Strait at around 11:53 Aug. 11
Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs south-southwest of Opunake, New Zealand, at 11:53 Aug. 11. No initial reports of damage.
Event
A magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurred in the Cook Strait at around 11:53 Aug. 11. The epicenter was about 84 km (52 miles) south-southwest of Opunake. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 184 km (114 miles), and light shaking was probably felt parts of northern South Island and southern North Island. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
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.