Powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake hits Solomon Islands; no tsunami warning issued
A strong earthquake of magnitude 7.0 struck the Solomon Islands on Tuesday, followed by a second quake of magnitude 6.0 just 30 minutes later. Eyewitnesses said the quakes led to violent shaking, but there have been no immediate reports of damage or casualties. Following the first quake, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) issued a tsunami alert, but the warning was later withdrawn.
No tsunami threat, unusual currents may occur: Experts
The country faces no tsunami threat, according to the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service, but authorities have warned about unusual sea currents in coastal regions. "People are also advised to be vigilant as aftershocks are expected to continue," Reuters quoted a Meteorological Service official as saying. Meanwhile, Seismology Fiji too corroborated the "no tsunami threat" forecast in the island nation.
Warning of 'hazardous waves' by Pacific Tsunami Warning Center
Although there is no tsunami threat anticipated for the Solomon Islands, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a warning that hazardous waves are likely for islands in the region. Officials also said the earthquakes might result in waves of up to one meter (three feet) beyond tide levels for the Solomon Islands, while smaller waves are expected in Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.
Quake led to panic in the Solomon Islands
Following the first earthquake, people in the Solomon Islands and surrounding areas entered a state of panic. The power supply was interrupted in certain areas of the capital city, Honiara, and many residents fled to higher grounds. "This was a big one," a hotel employee in Honiara told AFP. "Some of the things in the hotel fell. Everyone seems OK but panicky," they said.
Watch: Video of violent shaking during first earthquake
What did officials say about quake?
The epicenter of the first earthquake was recorded in the ocean around 56 kilometers southwest of Honiara, and at a depth of 13 kilometers, AP reported citing officials. Notably, the Solomon Islands are located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an arc-like region around the rim of the Pacific Ocean that frequently witnesses earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
Images of the damage at Honiara Airport
Australian prime minister extends support
Australian PM Anthony Albanese extended support to the Solomon Islands and Indonesia, which was hit by a quake on Monday. "I have conveyed Australia's condolences to...President [Joko Widodo] on the loss of life from the earthquake in West Java," he tweeted. "I have also relayed to Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare that Australia stands ready to assist in the wake of the earthquake."
