A tsunami watch has been issued for Fiji following a powerful magnitude 8.2 earthquake that struck near General Santos City in the Philippines today.
The Seismology Section of Fiji’s Mineral Resources Department issued Tsunami Watch Message 1 at 11:37am, advising residents in low-lying coastal areas to remain alert and take necessary precautions while authorities continue to monitor the situation.
According to the advisory, the earthquake occurred about 40 kilometres north-northeast of General Santos City at a depth of 46 kilometres.
The tsunami watch currently applies to all coastal low-lying areas of Fiji.
In its statement, the Seismology Section warned that coastal communities could experience strong and unusual sea currents as well as unpredictable surges along shorelines.
“We advise the public and particularly all residents on low-lying coastal areas to take necessary precaution and be on standby and alert for the next available updates,” the statement said.
“All low-lying coastal areas are to experience strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges at the shore.”
Authorities have urged members of the public to stay tuned to local media outlets and official government channels for further information.
“We also advise the public to stay tuned to local media channel for further updates.”
The Seismology Section said it would continue to closely monitor the situation until any threat has passed.
“The Seismology Section of MRD will continue to closely monitor the situation during this time until the threat is over.”
A tsunami watch means a tsunami is possible and people living in vulnerable coastal areas should remain alert and prepared to act if conditions change. It does not necessarily mean that a destructive tsunami will occur.
Further updates are expected as authorities assess the potential impact of the earthquake on the Fiji Group.
