Magnitude 6.7 Earthquake Hits Lower South Island: No Tsunami Threat Issued

A 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck the lower South Island with no tsunami threat confirmed. Approximately 4,000 people felt the tremor, and residents were advised to stay clear of coastal areas due to dangerous currents. Officials reported no immediate damage.

A 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck the lower South Island at 2:43 PM, with its epicenter located 140 kilometers southwest of Tuatapere at a depth of 33 kilometers. The incident prompted assessments for tsunami risks by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and GNS Science, which subsequently confirmed that there would be “no land threat expected”.

Despite the clear absence of a tsunami threat, residents were cautioned to avoid beach and marine areas due to the presence of strong and unusual currents that could pose dangers. More than 4,000 people reported feeling the quake, which was classified as “moderate” on GeoNet’s platform, with notable impact in areas such as Invercargill, Gore, Te Anau, Cromwell, Queenstown, and Dunedin.

A resident from Invercargill commented on the experience, referring to it as a “good shake” that “made you sit up and take notice.” Mark Mitchell, the Minister for Emergency Management, reiterated the precautionary measures on 1News, stating that while evacuations were not necessary, individuals should remain cautious near the shoreline.

The Southland District Council, in its update, noted that there were no immediate reports of damage following the earthquake’s occurrence.

In summary, a recent 6.7 magnitude earthquake in the lower South Island raised initial concerns regarding tsunami risk, which were later dispelled by experts. Precautions remain in place as residents are advised to steer clear of coastal areas due to potentially hazardous currents. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of damage in the affected regions.

Original Source: www.1news.co.nz