WASHINGTON – The U.S. Geological Survey is reporting a large 7.6 earthquake in the Indian Ocean about 160 miles (257 kilometers) from India's Andaman Islands.

The USGS also said Monday that the quake has the potential to generate destructive tsunamis in the region, though it cautions that it is not known if such a tsunami has occurred.

A tsunami watch is in place for India, Myanmar, Indonesia, Thailand and Bangladesh.