Tsunami warning downgraded after large earthquake of magnitude 7.3 near Tonga

The government of Tonga asked citizens to move inland early on Saturday after an earthquake of magnitude 7.3 struck the sea around 211 km (131 miles) from the capital, though a tsunami warning issued for Tonga and American Samoa was lifted.

 "Based on tide gauge observation in Tonga, a tsunami wave of 10 centimeters was recorded in Neiafu, Vava'u, 6 centimeters in Niuatoputapu and 5 centimeters recorded in Nuku'alofa tide gauge at 1 a.m. this morning," the government declared in its latest statement.

 However, ocean currents around marine coastal areas "may be strong and erratic and special caution should be exercised," the statement warned.

The government also advised the public to stay away from low lying coastal areas, beaches and harbor areas, adding that people should avoid swimming and any related activities until the warning is canceled.

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 Mw 7.3
Region    TONGA REGION
Date time    2022-11-11 10:48:50.5 UTC
Location    19.17 S ; 172.33 W
Depth    60 km
Distances    371 km NE of Nuku‘alofa, Tonga / pop: 22,400 / local time: 23:48:50.5 2022-11-11
183 km E of Neiafu, Tonga / pop: 4,300 / local time: 23:48:50.5 2022-11-11