27 Jul 2022 | 10:19 AM UTC
Tonga: Magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs east of the Vava'u Islands July 27
Magnitude-5.5 offshore earthquake occurs east of the Vava'u Islands, Tonga, at around 22:36 July 27. No immediate reports of damage.
Event
A magnitude-5.5 earthquake occurred in the South Pacific Ocean east of Tonga's Vava'u islands at around 22:36 July 27. The epicenter was about 32 km (20 miles) east-southeast of Neiafu. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and moderate-to-light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of the Vava'u and Ha'apai island groups. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light 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.
