7.1-magnitude earthquake hits Tonga, tsunami feared

A 7.1-magnitude earthquake has struck offshore near Tonga.

A 7.1-magnitude earthquake has been reported offshore near the Pacific island nation of Tonga, according to the US Geological Survey on Sunday, prompting the issuance of a tsunami warning.

A warning has been issued indicating that dangerous waves may be expected for coastlines situated within 300 kilometers (185 miles) of the epicenter.

The US tsunami warning system has indicated that hazardous tsunami waves may occur within 300 kilometers (186 miles) of the earthquake’s epicenter, particularly affecting the coasts of Tonga.