6.7-Magnitude Earthquake Shakes New Zealand’s South Island

Seismic Event Shakes Southland and Fiordland Regions

A 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck off New Zealand’s South Island on Tuesday, prompting authorities to assess potential tsunami risks.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) urged residents in the Southland and Fiordland regions to remain cautious, warning that strong and unusual currents could pose hazards along coastal areas.

Thousands Feel the Impact

New Zealand’s seismic monitoring agency, Geonet, confirmed that over 4,700 people experienced the tremors, with reports of swaying buildings and falling objects.

According to Geonet, the earthquake occurred at a depth of 33 km (21 miles) and was located 160 km northwest of Snares Islands, which are part of New Zealand’s sub-Antarctic region.

Meanwhile, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) revised the magnitude from an initial 7.0 down to 6.7 and reported a shallower depth of 10 km (6 miles).

No Tsunami Threat Reported

Despite the intensity of the quake, Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology confirmed that there is no tsunami threat to Australia’s mainland, islands, or territories.

New Zealand’s Location on the Ring of Fire

New Zealand is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a 40,000-kilometer arc known for its high seismic and volcanic activity. This region frequently experiences earthquakes due to shifting tectonic plates, making preparedness crucial for residents.

For real-time updates on earthquake monitoring and safety tips, visit the official website of New Zealand’s National Emergency Management Agency.