San Francisco, California – Concerns about a potential tsunami along the West Coast were quickly ruled out Monday night after a powerful earthquake struck near the Tonga Islands in the Pacific.
According to the National Tsunami Warning Center, a magnitude 7.3 earthquake occurred at 9:38 p.m. Pacific Time near Tonga, but there is no tsunami danger for California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, or Alaska. Officials emphasized that based on earthquake data and historical records, this event is not expected to generate a tsunami.
The quake occurred at a depth of about 91 miles, which significantly reduces the likelihood of tsunami formation compared to shallower events. No coastal impacts are expected along the U.S. West Coast, and no warnings or advisories have been issued.
Emergency management agencies across coastal regions, including the Bay Area and Pacific Northwest, are continuing routine monitoring but do not anticipate any disruptions to ports, beaches, or marine traffic.
Residents along the West Coast can continue normal activities, as this remains an informational update rather than an active threat.
No further tsunami statements are expected unless new information develops.
