12 Mar 2011

Tonga registers tsunami waves

8:03 am on 12 March 2011

The Met Office in Tonga says it has recorded waves between two and three feet in Tonga.

The director of the office, Ofa Fa'anunu, says so far they have detected three waves.

"Ranging between two to three feet, the warnings are still in place effect for the whole of the Tonga group, although some of the reports are coming in on the radio of similar activity throughout the island group."

Thousands of people in capital Nuku'alofa are seeking refuge at the King's residence.

The residence is located on elevated land and it became the target for shelter by people fleeing during previous tsunami warnings.

Vehicles packed with people, including women and children, have set up camps or are remaining in their vehicles at the King's residence.

They have with them candles, lamps, food items, pillows and some beddings.