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18 Nov 2018 | 08:45 PM UTC

Fiji: 6.9-magnitude earthquake strikes off Fiji coast November 19

Deep 6.9-magnitude earthquake strikes off Fiji coast on November 19; no tsunami warning issued by the US Geological Survey (USGS)

Warning

Event

At approximately 09:25 (local time) a 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck 253 km (157 mi) southeast of Lambasa (Fiji). The earthquake struck at a depth of 546 km (339 mi). The US Geological Survey (USGS) has not issued a tsunami warning as of 09:45. Further aftershocks are possible in the coming hours and days.

Context

The region is in the active seismic belt called the "Pacific Ring of Fire" and frequently experiences earthquakes and subsequent tsunamis. Tsunamis are a series of slow-moving waves that can vary in height and time between crests.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas should monitor the situation, be prepared for further aftershocks and tsunamis, and adhere to any instructions issued by local or regional authorities.