“New Zealand is jolted by a powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake, striking just 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) beneath the surface off the southwest tip of the South Island. The USGS confirmed the tremor, which has left locals shaken and authorities on alert.”
On Tuesday, a powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit off the coast of Riverton, New Zealand, as reported by the United States Geological Survey. The tremor was initially recorded as a 7.0 magnitude quake, originating 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) beneath the surface near the southwestern tip of the South Island. Although the earthquake was significant, no tsunami warnings have been issued, and authorities are keeping a close watch for any potential aftershocks or updates.
Just days earlier, on March 21, a 4.9 magnitude earthquake hit Afghanistan. The tremor, recorded by the National Center for Seismology, occurred at a depth of 160 km.
The USGS website reported that green alerts have been issued for potential shaking-related fatalities and economic damage in the region, suggesting minimal risks of casualties or significant harm. The agency explained that the eastern edge of the Australian plate is one of the most seismically active zones globally, due to the intense convergence between the Australian and Pacific plates.
The ongoing movement, collision, rise, and sinking of tectonic plates generate constant stress, leading to the gradual buildup of energy. Smaller quakes help to release this energy in stages, but when stress accumulates without being released, the pressure grows, increasing the likelihood of a major earthquake. In some instances, this stored energy is suddenly released, triggering powerful tremors and widespread devastation.
