A strong earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale has struck the Tonga Islands in the Pacific, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The quake occurred approximately 77 kilometers northeast of Pangai, the agency reported.
In response, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued an alert, warning that hazardous waves could impact coastal areas within a 300-kilometer radius of the epicenter.
There were no immediate reports of damage.
Tonga, a Polynesian nation consisting of 171 islands, has a population of just over 100,000, with most residents living on the main island of Tongatapu.
The country is located more than 3,500 kilometers (2,000 miles) east of Australia.
