6.8-Magnitude Earthquake in Southwest Pacific, Tsunami Possible
According to the US Geological Survey, a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck east of the French territory of New Caledonia on Thursday, generating tsunami warnings for numerous Pacific islands.
Waves less than 0.3 meters above the tide level are forecast throughout the coastlines of Vanuatu, Fiji, and New Caledonia, according to the US National Weather Service.
The tremor struck at 4.44 p.m. local time (0544 GMT) at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles), 279 km (173 miles) southeast of Tadine, New Caledonia, according to the USGS.
Waves less than 0.3 meters above the tide level are forecast throughout the coastlines of Vanuatu, Fiji, and New Caledonia, according to the US National Weather Service.
“People living in endangered coastal areas should keep vigilant for information and follow national and local authorities’ recommendations,” it continued.
