Updated

Tsunami warnings for several Pacific islands have been cancelled after authorities determined that a powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck near the Solomon Islands did not pose a threat.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said waves of up to three metres were still possible along the coast of the Solomon Islands, and smaller tsunami waves could hit Papua New Guinea.

There were reports of some electricity cuts in the Solomon Islands, although there were no immediate reports of widespread damage or injuries from the quake.

The US Geological Survey said the quake hit about 120 miles south east of Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands.

The epicentre was relatively deep at 30 miles below the surface. Deeper quakes generally cause less damage on the ground.

The Solomon Islands are located in the Pacific's geologically active "Ring of Fire".