Nuku'alofa, November 19, 2024 – A 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck the South Pacific
islands of Tonga today, sending tremors across the region. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred 50 kilometers west of Houma, at a depth of 10 kilometers, around midday local time.
Despite the intensity of the tremor, no immediate reports of casualties or significant damage have been confirmed. Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and there have been no indications of a tsunami threat following the quake.
Tonga, an island nation located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, is no stranger to seismic activity, as the region sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. However, as of now, the government has urged residents to stay alert, with officials assuring that they are prepared to respond swiftly should the situation change.