Deep M6.1 earthquake hits Kermadec Islands
Image credit: TW/SAM, Google
A deep earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.1 hit Kermadec Islands, New Zealand at 09:18 UTC on February 13, 2023. The agency is reporting a depth of 374 km (232 miles). EMSC is reporting the same magnitude and depth.
The epicenter was located 959 km (596 miles) SSW of ‘Ohonua, Tonga, and 997 km (619 miles) NE of Whangarei, New Zealand.
There is no tsunami threat from this earthquake.
The USGS issued a Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.
Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are highly resistant to earthquake shaking, though some vulnerable structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are reinforced masonry and unreinforced brick with timber floor construction.
Regional seismicity
I'm a dedicated researcher, journalist, and editor at The Watchers. With over 20 years of experience in the media industry, I specialize in hard science news, focusing on extreme weather, seismic and volcanic activity, space weather, and astronomy, including near-Earth objects and planetary defense strategies. You can reach me at teo /at/ watchers.news.
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.