Wellington, Mar 4: Officials in New Zealand issued a tsunami warning for coastal areas after a shallow, powerful earthquake struck off its northeastern coast on Thursday night. There were no immediate reports of serious damage or casualties.
New Zealand's National Emergency Management Agency warned of a tsunami threat along the east of the country's North Island following the magnitude 7.3 quake.
The U.S. Tsunami Warning System predicted waves of 0.3 to 1 metre (1 to 3.3 feet), but later said the threat had passed.
The US Geological Survey said the quake was centered at a depth of 20.8 kilometres (13 miles) under the ocean about 174 kilometres (108 miles) northeast of the city of Gisborne. Residents of Gisborne reported light to moderate shaking, it said.
A magnitude 6.3 quake hit the city of Christchurch in 2011, killing 185 people and destroying much of its downtown.
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Dubai: Unverified reports circulating on social media claim that the Burj Al Arab has been hit by an Iranian missile, with videos showing part of the building engulfed in flames.
The footage, which has not been independently verified, appears to show fire and smoke rising from a section of the hotel.
However, there has been no official confirmation from UAE authorities regarding any strike on the Burj Al Arab.
No details are available at this stage about possible damage or casualties. Authorities are yet to issue a formal statement on the reported incident.
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