Magnitude 7.4 quake near the Kermadec Islands prompts fresh warnings
A tsunami warning has been issued after two earthquakes near the Kermadec Islands this morning.
A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck at 6.41am, and an 8.0 magnitude struck at 8.28 north-east of New Zealand near the Kermadec Islands.
he National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) says People near the coast from the Bay of Islands to Whangārei including the Great Barrier Islands from Matata to Tologa Bay must Move immediately to the nearest high ground, out of all tsunami evacuation zones, or as far inland as possible.
"Evacuate these areas even if you did not feel the earthquake. DO NOT WAIT. A damaging tsunami is possible. People in all other areas who felt a LONG or STRONG earthquake should MOVE IMMEDIATELY to the nearest high ground, out of tsunami evacuation zones, or as far inland as possible," NEMA said.
This evacuation advice overrides the current COVID-19 Alert Level requirements.
People are urged not to stay at home, and to move immediately. "Stay two metres away from others if you can and if it is safe to do so. People evacuating should walk, run or cycle if possible to reduce chance of getting stuck in traffic. Do not return until all-clear is given by Civil Defence," NEMA said.
It comes after a strong 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck at 2.27am. It was 105km east of Te Araroa at a depth of 90km.
Nearly 60,000 people reported feeling the quake on GeoNet.
Visit: www.civildefence.govt.nz for more information.
MORE TO COME.
