New images emerging from Vava‘u have revealed the force of the earthquake that struck Tonga earlier today, with household items seen tumbling from pantries and shelves as the shaking hit the island group.
It comes after the National Tsunami Warning Centre warned that a dangerous tsunami could occur within minutes after a deep magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck near the archipelago today, Tuesday, 24.
Residents reported strong, prolonged tremors that caused goods in several homes and small shops to fall to the floor, adding to concerns felt across the region during the tsunami alert.
Neiafu town officer Vavā Lapota told Kaniva News the quake was strongly felt in Neiafu, noting that the shaking was intense enough to dislodge products in convenience stores, leaving aisles scattered with items.
Lapota posted several photos on Facebook, saying they were taken inside Chinese-owned convenience stores. He added that he had not received any reports of damage to land or residential buildings.
The National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO) has since confirmed that the tsunami warning has now been cancelled for all of Tonga, including Vava‘u, after earlier advisories urged residents to move to higher ground.
Authorities say no damage has yet been reported, and police have urged the public to remain calm while officials continue monitoring for any further activity.
More updates will be provided as additional assessments come in from outer island groups and emergency services.
