Tsunami warning for New Zealand after powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake
A tsunami warning has been issued after a powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake hit New Zealand today.
The quake was at a depth of 33 miles, and hit New Zealand’s South Island, according to the German Research Centre for Geosciences.
The tremor was centred around 24 miles north of the town of Te Anau, and struck at about 9.15pm (10.15am UK time).
The agency earlier said the earthquake had a magnitude of 5.6, with a depth of around six miles.
Following the tsunami warning, officials told people in the region to move to high ground as soon as possible and avoid beaches, shore areas and rivers.
They also told people to stay out of the water, even if they are in boats.
1News reported that a person in Wānaka, which is around 85 miles northeast of Te Anau, felt the ‘very strong quake’.
Another in Alexandra, 80 miles east of Te Anau, said they heard a ‘very loud rumble’ that was followed by ‘decent shaking.’
A tsunami warning has been issued after a powerful 6.3-magnitude earthquake hit New Zealand today (File image)
New Zealand’s South Island, the larger of the two main islands, sits on top of the Alpine Fault line, which runs across almost its whole length.
As a result, the country sees around 14,000 earthquake every year. Around 150 to 200 are powerful enough to be felt.
The deadliest in recent memory was the 2011 quake that hit Christchurch, which saw 185 people die and widespread destruction across the city.
More to follow.
