Tonga: Magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurs in South Pacific Ocean, west of Pangai, Ha'apai islands, at around 12:30 Aug. 26

A magnitude-6.1 offshore earthquake occurred in the South Pacific Ocean at around 12:30 Aug. 26. The epicenter was about 59 km (37 miles) west of Pangai, Ha'api islands. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 107 km (66 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt throughout parts of Ha'apai and Tongatapu islands. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties. though 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, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.