A powerful magnitude 7.0 earthquake was detected off France’s New Caledonia, according to the United States Geological Survey, triggering tsunami warnings for some Pacific islands.
The earthquake was registered at a depth of 10 kilometres and its epicentre was 279 kilometres east-southeast of Tadine, New Caledonia.
According to the US National Weather Service, waves less than 0.3 metres over the tide level were expected along the coasts of Vanuatu, Fiji and New Caledonia.
"Persons located in threatened coastal areas should stay alert for information and follow instructions from national and local authorities," the US National Weather Service said.
No further information on any possible casualties or damage was reported.
Late on Wednesday, the USGS reported another 7.0 magnitude earthquake off the French overseas territory.
New Caledonia is located in a seismologically active zone and regularly suffers from powerful earthquakes.