NewDelhi : New Zealand authorities on Thursday withdrew a tsunami warning issued after a powerful offshore earthquake struck near the west coast of the South Island, saying updated assessments showed the threat had significantly reduced.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) initially issued a precautionary tsunami alert following the undersea tremor, advising residents in vulnerable coastal areas to move to higher ground immediately.

However, after seismologists reviewed the event, officials revised the earthquake’s magnitude to 5.9 and confirmed that the likelihood of a destructive tsunami had passed. The tsunami warning was subsequently lifted.

While reassuring the public that there is no longer a major tsunami threat, authorities cautioned that strong and unpredictable ocean currents could still affect parts of the coastline. Swimmers, surfers, fishermen, boaters and anyone near beaches or harbours have been advised to remain vigilant until sea conditions stabilise.

Emergency officials also urged residents and visitors to rely only on official advisories and avoid unnecessary activity along the shoreline as a precaution.

Authorities continue to monitor seismic activity and coastal conditions closely. As of now, there have been no reports of significant damage, casualties or injuries linked to the earthquake, though officials said they remain prepared to issue fresh advisories if the situation changes.

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