Neiafu

The US Geological Survey (USGS) said that the quake occurred 109.4 km northwest of Neiafu, Vava'u, the largest town on the island of Tonga, and at a depth of 10 km.

There have been no reports of casualties or material damage as a result of the earthquake so far, and no tsunami warnings have been issued.

It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas.

Aftershocks are possible over the coming days.

The quake hit at a shallow depth of 10 km beneath the epicenter near Neiafu, Vava‘u, Tonga, early evening on Saturday 5 December 2020 at 7.43 pm local time.

The exact magnitude, epicenter, and depth of the quake might be revised within the next few hours or minutes as seismologists review data and refine their calculations, or as other agencies issue their report.

A second report was later issued by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), which listed it as a magnitude 5.5 earthquake as well.

The truck was found completely submerged in water near Puatalefusi wharf.

According to Kaniva News, Neiafu Town Officer Vāvā Lapota said the truck was expected to tow a boat at a launching ramp near before the incident occurred.

It was unclear whether the truck was dragged into the water by the boat or it slid before it plunged into the sea.

Lapota said it was raining and the ramp was slippery.