A strong 7.0 magnitude earthquake has hit near the Pacific nation of Tonga and an initial tsunami warning was lifted hours later. The U.S.

People in New Zealand were advised to stay away from the shore after an earthquake measuring magnitude 6.8 struck off the coast of South Island on Tuesday. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

WELLINGTON: A strong 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck off New Zealand's South Island on Tuesday (Mar 25), authorities said, prompting the country's disaster agency to warn residents to avoid coastal areas.