ShakeMap (Calculated intensity of this earthquake near Nuku‘alofa):
View ShakeMap, Epicenter and historical seismicity on interactive map
General data about this earthquake:
Time (UTC): 2022-08-28 18:48
Magnitude: 5.6
Depth: 235.0 km
Maximum intensity: 2.9 (EMS scale)
Given earthquake data might be preliminary (uncertain) until manual revision by a scientist is done.
Nearby places
| City | Country | Intensity (EMS-98) | Population | Distance epicenter (km) | Effects |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tatakamotonga | TO | 2.8 | 3000 | 202.5 | barely felt |
| Nuku‘alofa | TO | 2.8 | 22000 | 196.7 | barely felt |
| Vaini | TO | 2.8 | 3000 | 197.1 | barely felt |
| Lapaha | TO | 2.8 | 8000 | 203.6 | barely felt |
| Haveluloto | TO | 2.8 | 3000 | 195.1 | barely felt |
| Kolonga | TO | 2.6 | 1000 | 210.1 | barely felt |
Current earthquake activity near Nuku‘alofa:
Due to lack of data no comparison with long-term trends is possible for this region.
Statistic:
Since 1960, 4 earthquakes larger than Magnitude 5.6 were detected in this region. This makes an average of 0.08 earthquakes larger than M5.6 per year around Nuku‘alofa. Therefore, the general earthquake activity is usually moderate and quakes of this size have an average recurrence time of approx. 12.5 years (150 months).
Largest earthquakes in this map section* (Nuku‘alofa and nearby)
| Date | Magnitude | Depth (km) |
|---|---|---|
| 2011-7-16 | 5.8 | 6 |
| 2007-11-15 | 5.8 | 37 |
| 1972-4-20 | 5.8 | 15 |
| 1968-8-25 | 5.7 | 97 |
| 1978-3-3 | 5.2 | 33 |
| 1978-3-3 | 5.2 | 33 |
| 2011-7-30 | 5.0 | 40 |
| 2010-7-3 | 5.0 | 6 |
| 1988-11-22 | 5.0 | 33 |
| 2012-7-22 | 4.9 | 10 |
*Data: USGS (Magnitude 5 +, since 1960). See all historical earthquakes in the interactive map linked above.
What to do in case of an earthquake?
1. No panic.
2. If you are inside a building: Seek shelter under stable furniture (e.g. dining table). Be aware of falling objects. Do not flee the building! Falling roof tiles, bricks, and glass can harm you. After the shaking stops: Turn off the electronical devices. Check gas pipes for leaks. Check for structural damage. Leave your house if you are uncertain. In case of damage: Do not enter the building before a professional safety check! Dangerous aftershocks might follow. Help your neighbors if necessary. If outdoors: Keep away from buildings, try to find open space, crouch down, and cover your head with your arms. Do not run on the streets before checking for cars. Always watch your environment.
3. If you are near the coast: In case of strong or long-lasting shaking evacuate to higher grounds immediately! A tsunami might be possible. Do not wait for official warnings. In areas of a high tsunami threat, follow the evacuation route signs but be aware of possible damaged buildings and landslides on your route. Once reaching a higher / save point, listen to official instructions and warnings.
4. If you are in the mountains or near a steep slope: Watch for rockfalls, landslides, and avalanches. Get away from slopes immediately and protect your head with your arms.
5. Try to help people in need. Take special care of elderly people and children. After the earthquake stopped, confirm that your neighbors, friends, and family are save. Help them, if necessary but do not get yourself into a dangerous situation. Call and wait for professional rescue teams.