18 Feb 2024 | 05:18 AM UTC
Tonga: Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs east-northeast of Nuku'alofa at around 17:32 Feb. 18
Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs east-northeast of Nuku'alofa, Tonga, at 17:32 Feb. 18. No initial reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurred in the South Pacific Ocean off Tonga at around 17:32 Feb. 18. The epicenter was about 171 km (106 miles) east-northeast of Nuku'alofa. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt throughout southern and central Tonga. 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 possible 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.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
