A strong earthquake with a 6.8 magnitude struck Riverton, New Zealand this afternoon (March 25). According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake had a depth of 10 kilometers and occurred offshore, 159 km southwest of Riverton.
Possible Tsunami?
New Zealand's National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is currently assessing whether there is a tsunami threat. According to them, if there is a tsunami, it will reach the country's coast within an hour. Those on the coast are advised to run to higher ground if the earthquake lasts more than 1 minute or if it is very strong.
Fortunately, the Australia's Bureau of Meteorology and US Tsunami Warning System said that there is no tsunami threat for the region.
The Earthquake is Felt!
More than 4,500 people reported feeling the earthquake. According to some residents, the shaking was accompanied by a loud noise and lasted for a long time.
"Things fell off the shelves!"
"The table outside, it looks like it's jumping!"
"We're on the 8th floor of the hospital, we can feel the movement!"
"I'm inside the car, but it feels like someone is dancing underneath!"
