The Tonga Meteorological Service has issued an “Urgent Tsunami Warning” for all of Tonga following a strong earthquake felt across the entire country late this afternoon Tuesday, 24.
The National Tsunami Warning Centre confirms that a dangerous tsunami could occur within minutes after a deep magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck near the archipelago on Tuesday, and the alert is now in full force for the Kingdom.
Authorities are urging the public to evacuate immediately to high ground or to the third level of a steel or concrete building and remain there until the threat is declared over.
Mariners are advised to move into deep ocean waters away from reefs.
The National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has been activated, and officials warn that the situation remains fluid while earthquake assessments continue.
Residents are instructed to stay tuned to Radio Tonga for continuous updates, with the next bulletin to be issued as soon as new earthquake information becomes available.
The National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO) and the Tonga Meteorological Services have also issued a Tsunami Alert for all coastal areas of Tonga, urging immediate preparedness and evacuation measures.
Authorities are advising the public to move at once to higher ground or inland, keep away from beaches, shorelines, and all low‑lying coastal zones, and strictly follow evacuation routes and instructions from emergency officials.
Residents are being told to remain tuned to official radio, television, and emergency communication channels for real‑time updates, and not to return to the coast until an official “ALL CLEAR” has been declared.
Emergency Contacts:
NEOC General Enquiries: (676) 26340
Tonga Meteorological Service: (676) 74 00062 or (676) 35 009
This message is being repeated continuously as instructed by authorities.
