Earthquake strikes east of Tonga

A strong earthquake has hit a remote area of the South Pacific ocean, about 150km (95 miles) east of the island nation of Tonga.

The US Geological Survey said the quake had a magnitude of 7.1. It struck at a depth of 14.9 km (9.3 miles). No tsunami warning has been issued.

There are no reports of any casualties or damage to Tonga.

The island is situated in the Pacific "ring of fire", where volcanoes and earthquakes are relatively common.