A powerful earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale struck the Kermadec Islands to the north of New Zealand on Thursday, causing a tsunami warning to be issued. The earthquake was shallow, with an estimated depth of 10 km, and occurred on the boundary of two of the world's major tectonic plates – the Pacific Plate and the Australian Plate.
The US Tsunami Warning System issued a warning shortly after the earthquake for nearby uninhabited islands within a 300-km radius.
However, the National Emergency Management Agency announced that there was no tsunami threat for New Zealand following the earthquake.
New Zealand is known for its seismic activity as it sits on the edge of the Ring of Fire, a zone of intense seismic activity that stretches around the Pacific Rim. The country experiences thousands of earthquakes every year, with many of them being of low intensity and going unnoticed.
The earthquake on Thursday, however, was felt by many in New Zealand, especially in the northern parts of the country. People reported feeling shaking, and some even reported seeing their furniture move. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries in New Zealand, although there were reports of a small tsunami wave being recorded on Raoul Island, a small volcanic island located about 1,100 km northeast of New Zealand.
Following the earthquake, the National Emergency Management Agency reminded people of the importance of being prepared for earthquakes and other natural disasters. They emphasized the need to have an emergency plan in place and to know what to do in case of an earthquake or tsunami. They also reminded people that if an earthquake is long or strong, it is important to get gone and move to higher ground or a safe location.
The earthquake serves as a reminder of the constant threat of seismic activity in New Zealand and the need for continued vigilance and preparedness. While the country has experienced many earthquakes in the past, it is important for individuals and communities to remain vigilant and prepared in case of future events.