New Delhi, March 30 -- A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Tonga early Monday, prompting a tsunami warning for the Pacific island nation.

According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) northeast of Tonga's main island.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued an alert, cautioning that hazardous waves could affect coastlines within a 300-kilometer (185-mile) radius from the quake's epicenter.

As of now, there are no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from MINT....