24 May 2013

7.4 magnitude earthquake strikes south of Tonga

6:38 am on 24 May 2013

The United States Geological Survey says a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck in the sea 285 kilometres southwest of Tonga's capital Nuku'alofa.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre says the quake was recorded at a depth of 208 kilometres and struck at 5:20am New Zealand time.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center says no destructive Pacific-wide tsunami is expected.

Tonga's Police Commissioner Grant O'Fee says it was a strong shake but he knows of no damage caused or loss of life.