Coastalsurvey

Early reports of a quake between American Samoa and Western Samoa have a tidal wave striking American Samoa. New Zealand is on alert.

Here’s the AP report:

7.9 quake hits South Pacific, tsunami alert issued

(AP) – 43 minutes ago

APIA, Samoa — The U.S. Geological Survey says a powerful 7.9-magnitude earthquake has struck in the South Pacific between Samoa and American Samoa. A tsunami alert has been issued for the region.

The temblor hit at 6:48 a.m. Tuesday (1748 GMT) midway between the two island groups. In the Samoan capital of Apia, families fled their homes amid severe shaking that lasted for up to three minutes. Local media reported people were fleeing to higher ground.

The USGS said the quake struck 20 miles (35 kilometers) below the ocean floor and was 120 miles (190 kilometers) from American Samoa and 125 miles (200 kilometers) from Samoa.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a general alert for the South Pacific region, from American Samoa to New Zealand.