Tonga earthquake: Preliminary magnitude 7.6 earthquake strikes near Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean, USGS says

NEIAFU, Tonga — A strong preliminary magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck near Tonga in the South Pacific Ocean on Tuesday.

The United States Geological Survey said the quake struck early Tuesday evening local time at a depth of about 237 km (148 miles). Earthquakes at shallower depths are felt more strongly at the surface.

The jolt was centered at sea, 153 km (95 miles) west of Neiafu, the second largest town in the island nation.

There were no immediate reports of damage.

This is a developing story. This article will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.