NOTE: The map shows areas with a shaking intensity of 4 or greater, which the USGS defines as “weak,” but earthquakes may be felt outside of the marked areas. new york times
A large magnitude 7.5 earthquake occurred in the South Pacific on Tuesday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The quake occurred at 12:37 a.m. ET about 103 miles west of Neiapu, Tonga, according to agency data.
USGS data previously reported a magnitude of 7.6.
Seismologists may revise reported earthquake magnitudes as they review available data. Additional information collected about the earthquake may allow USGS scientists to update shaking severity maps.
Aftershocks in the area
Aftershocks are small earthquakes that are usually followed by larger earthquakes in the same area. Aftershocks are usually minor adjustments to the fault section that slipped during the initial earthquake.
Earthquakes and aftershocks within 100 miles
Aftershocks can occur days, weeks, or even years after the first earthquake. These events may be of the same or greater magnitude as the initial earthquake and may continue to impact locations that have already suffered damage.
When an earthquake or aftershock occurs
Source: U.S. Geological Survey | Note: Tremor categories are based on the modified Mercalli intensity scale. When aftershock data is available, the maps and charts include earthquakes within 100 miles and within 7 days of the initial earthquake. All times above are Eastern Time. Shake data is as of 1:37 AM ET on Tuesday, March 24th. Aftershock data is as of 12:22 PM ET on Tuesday, March 24.
