Massive quake hits Tonga

Tonga, in the Pacific region, was hit by a massive earthquake, measuring 8.0 on the Richter Scale on Wednesday.

According to the US Geological Survey, a 'great quake' struck the centre of the Tonga archipelago.  It occured south of Neiafu island and northeast of the major island, Nuku'Alofa. It was recorded as having occured 16 kms below the earth's surface.

Immediately, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii alerted New Zealand and Fiji to the possibility of a giant wave, which may be caused by the quake.