Multiple Deaths Confirmed After 7.9 Earthquake Strikes Off Indonesia, Tsunami Warning Issued

Several people have reportedly died in the wake of a 7.9 magnitude earthquake off the west coast of Sumatra in Indonesia.

Tsunami warnings were immediately issued in Indonesia and parts of Australia, spreading panic in some provinces of Sumatra, areas which were the worst affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean quake. 

Residents in Padang, the capital of Indonesia's West Sumatra province have fled their homes for higher ground. Local news stations are also reporting heavy traffic jams and a sense of panic on the streets among Indonesians.