6.5-magnitude earthquake hits New Zealand's South Island; Public advised to avoid shoreline

Wellington (New Zealand): A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.5 struck New Zealand early Tuesday, as reported by the National Centre for Seismology (NCS).

The NCS shared the details on X, stating that the earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres off the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island.

"EQ of M: 6.5, On: 25/03/2025 07:13:11 IST, Lat: 46.78 S, Long: 166.28 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Off W. Coast of South Island New Zealand", it wrote on X.

New Zealand's Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery, Mark Mitchell, provided updates via X, urging the public to stay clear of the coast and water bodies due to possible hazards.

Mitchell noted that an emergency mobile alert was thus issued for the bottom of the island and highlighted hat strong and unusual currents may be experienced.

"An Emergency Mobile Alert has been issued for the bottom of the South Island. Evacuations are NOT required but there is potential danger near the shoreline. We are asking people to stay away from the beach and water. Strong and unusual currents may be experienced."

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) of New Zealand issued a nationwide advisory concerning possible tsunami activity. It warned that coastal areas could face unpredictable surges following the earthquake.

NEMA highlighted that the areas most at risk are the West Coast of the South Island from Milford Sound to Puysegur Point. The agency advised swimmers, surfers, fishers, and others near the sea to leave the water, avoid beaches, and stay away from harbours, marinas, rivers, and estuaries.

It further elaborated, "People on boats, live-aboards and at marinas should leave their boats/vessels and move onto shore. Do not return to boats unless instructed by officials."

While evacuation is currently unnecessary, NEMA cautioned that “strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges will continue for several hours, and the threat must be regarded as real until this Advisory is cancelled.”

The information, which was provided by NEMA was issued following an assessment of information available.

It gave a call for people to listen to the radio or TV for updates, or check www.civildefence.govt.nz .

ANI