A series of earthquakes have been occurring in the Fiji group.
Yesterday, prior to the 7.2 earthquake which struck in the southwest of Fiji, a series of minor earthquakes occurred in the group.
However the Department of Mineral Resources say the cluster of events is not abnormal.
Due to the unpredictable nature of earthquakes, the Department Acting Director Apete Soro said it is not able to predict occurrences.
“This is not abnormal, a clusters of events. We’ve had clusters before nothing happened but for this one, there seems to be a series and a a big one. It’s very difficult due to the nature of, because with the data that we have , we can make assumptions but predictions on when or where, that will only be when it’s happened” said Soro
There are three sets of networks which supply data to the Department when detecting earthquakes.
This includes the local network with the assistance of Tonga, the Oceanic and the U.S. Geological Survey.
The Pacific Tsunami warning Center also assists the Department in the verification process of earthquakes and tsunami warning.
The Mineral Resources Department advises the National Disaster Management Office on any tsunami threats.
Talks are also being held with donors on improving the local system.