Coastal communities across the Greater Wellington Region have been urged to stay out of the water following an 8.7-magnitude earthquake near Russia earlier today.
While there is no tsunami threat to New Zealand, the Wellington Region Emergency Management Office (WREMO) issued a civil defence advisory at 12:57 pm warning of strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges at the shore. The affected areas include Makara, Wellington South Coast, and Wellington Harbour.
“These strong currents and surges can injure and drown people,” WREMO said in the advisory. “There is a danger to swimmers, surfers, people fishing, and anyone in or near the water close to the shore.”
Authorities advised that people on boats, liveaboards, and at marinas should immediately disembark and remain on shore until further notice. For those on land, evacuation is not required, but strict precautions are advised.
“Stay out of the water, stay off beaches and shore areas, and don’t go sightseeing,” the advisory stated. Residents are encouraged to follow updates from civil defence authorities and to share warnings with friends, neighbours, and whānau.
The initial earthquake, originally reported as magnitude 8.0, was later upgraded to 8.7 at 12:35 pm. Officials are continuing to monitor the situation closely.
This advisory remains in effect as a precaution, and authorities stress the importance of vigilance around coastal waters.