A 7.0 earthquake shook off the coast near Tonga in the South Pacific early Monday morning. The earthquake shook approximately 60 miles northeast of Tongatapu, the nation’s largest island, and approximately 50 miles southeast of Pangai. Light to moderate shaking was described in areas of these regions.
After the earthquake, tsunami warnings had been issued to cause individuals to withdraw from the threat and escape to elevated areas or seek shelter in well-structured buildings. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center then announced that the threat had ceased, and individuals could then continue their normal activities.
This tragedy comes barely days after Myanmar was hit by a crippling 7.7 magnitude earthquake on Friday that took a horrific toll in lives. A minimum of 1,600 died with thousands more being left injured. The earthquake resulted in widespread damage to major cities like Mandalay and Naypyitaw where buildings collapsed, roads also incurred damage, and infrastructure was greatly damaged.
Rescue operations have been difficult in Myanmar because there has been a civil war and there have been few resources. Emergency responders continue to look for survivors and assist victims. It is not yet accessible in most areas, and there is an effort by authorities to restore order and bring relief to the needy.
Seismologists have documented increased activity in the area and stressed readiness for additional quakes. Local government agencies and international agencies are watching closely and making arrangements for relief operations to aid victims of these natural disasters.
Though Tonga itself narrowly avoided extensive damage from the recent earthquake, recent occurrences in Myanmar serve to illustrate the horrific impact that such natural disasters can have. Officials are on red alert, keeping citizens informed and taking precautionary measures. Citizens from both countries are rallying together to rebuild and assist victims of the recent disaster, demonstrating strength in adversity.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com