Very strong and shallow M7.0 earthquake hits Kermadec Islands, New Zealand

A very strong earthquake registered by the USGS as M7.0 hit the Kermadec Islands at 00:56 UTC on March 16, 2023. The agency is reporting a depth of 22 km (13.7 miles). EMSC is reporting the same magnitude and depth.
The epicenter was located 982.8 km (610.7 miles) S of ‘Ohonua, ʻEua, Tonga, and 1 077.5 km (669.5 miles) NE of Whakatane, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand.
Minor sea level fluctuations were observed on Raoul Island, Kermadec Islands.
The USGS issued a Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

Regional seismicity

Featured image credit: TW/SAM, Google
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