Tonga: Magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurs in South Pacific Ocean at around 13:50 Jan. 15

A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred in the South Pacific Ocean near Tonga at around 13:50 Jan. 15. The epicenter was about 168 km (104 miles) south of 'Ohonua. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking may have been felt in parts of Tonga. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. 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 where shaking occurred.