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Strong Earthquake Hits Solomon Islands for 2nd Day in a Row


A man stands alongside a building belonging to the World Vision aid organization that was damaged by an earthquake in Kirakira on the Solomon Islands, Dec. 9, 2016.
A man stands alongside a building belonging to the World Vision aid organization that was damaged by an earthquake in Kirakira on the Solomon Islands, Dec. 9, 2016.

An earthquake of 6.9 magnitude struck early Saturday off the coast of the Solomon Islands, one day after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake hit the same area.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said there was no major tsunami threat, but cautioned that waves up to 3 meters were possible along the coast of the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.

There were no immediate reports of widespread damage or injuries.

The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers and was located about 90 kilometers west of Kira Kira.

It comes a day after a major 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the islands, triggering a strong shaking, but no reports of injuries or serious damage.

The Solomon Islands are part of the so-called "Ring of Fire," a zone of tectonic activity around the Pacific Ocean that is subject to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

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