Strong 6.9 magnitude earthquake struck near Loyalty Islands

A strong and shallow 6.9 magnitude earthquake occurred at 12:19 UTC in the greater Loyalty Islands/New Caledonia area at a depth of 15.9 km (9.4 miles), according to USGS.

The epicenter was located 180 km (111 miles) west of Ile Hunter, Loyalty Islands, 260 km (161 miles) southeast of Tadine, Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia and 399 km (247 miles) east of Noumea, New Caledonia (22.157°S, 170.316°E).

EMSC recorded depth of 2 km (1,24 miles).

A lot of strong to very strong aftershocks can be expected. This area of the Pacific has regular massive earthquakes due to fast traveling tectonic plates. 

Based on the depth, magnitude and distance from the islands, Earthquake-Report.com is calling this earthquake NOT dangerous for eventual damage or injuries on the nearest islands, however people and properties will be shaken very good.

The maximum tsunami wave height near the coast of Isino will be 0.04m. In other words, NO real tsunami has to be expected.