A recent major earthquake in Vanuatu has raised concerns about the safety and infrastructure of the region, as authorities assess the damages and initiate rescue operations.
Vanuatu's Capital Hit by Powerful 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake
Vanuatu's Capital Hit by Powerful 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake
Severe earthquake causes damage and injuries in Port Vila while triggering a temporary tsunami alert.
A powerful earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale struck near Vanuatu's capital, Port Vila, at 12:47 local time (01:47 GMT) today. The quake, occurring at a depth of 57.1 kilometers, resulted in significant damage to buildings and infrastructure across the area. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake briefly triggered a tsunami warning, which was lifted shortly afterward. However, the extent of the damage remains uncertain, with preliminary reports indicating at least one confirmed fatality.
Local journalist Dan McGarry reported serious injuries at Vila Central Hospital, where patients awaited treatment. He described the event as the largest earthquake he has experienced in over two decades. Social media footage showcases the aftermath, including collapsed structures and disarray in homes, with many residents experiencing disrupted communication.
Among the damaged locations is the US embassy in Port Vila, which suffered "considerable damage" according to US officials, leading to its closure until further notice. In a show of support, the embassy in Papua New Guinea expressed solidarity with those affected and commitment to assistance in recovery efforts.
Michael Thompson, director of a local adventure company, provided insight into the chaos, noting that rescue operations are ongoing as multiple bodies were observed in the streets. He also reported significant structural damage throughout the town. Following the main earthquake, there were at least four aftershocks, varying between magnitudes of 4.7 and 5.5, striking the region within hours.
Responses from neighboring New Zealand and Australia noted no tsunami threat for their areas; however, Australia affirmed its readiness to assist Vanuatu in damage assessments, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasizing the country’s commitment to supporting its neighbor in times of crisis.
Vanuatu, an archipelago consisting of around 80 islands, is historically prone to seismic events due to its location in a geologically active zone, making the region vulnerable to earthquakes and natural disasters.
Local journalist Dan McGarry reported serious injuries at Vila Central Hospital, where patients awaited treatment. He described the event as the largest earthquake he has experienced in over two decades. Social media footage showcases the aftermath, including collapsed structures and disarray in homes, with many residents experiencing disrupted communication.
Among the damaged locations is the US embassy in Port Vila, which suffered "considerable damage" according to US officials, leading to its closure until further notice. In a show of support, the embassy in Papua New Guinea expressed solidarity with those affected and commitment to assistance in recovery efforts.
Michael Thompson, director of a local adventure company, provided insight into the chaos, noting that rescue operations are ongoing as multiple bodies were observed in the streets. He also reported significant structural damage throughout the town. Following the main earthquake, there were at least four aftershocks, varying between magnitudes of 4.7 and 5.5, striking the region within hours.
Responses from neighboring New Zealand and Australia noted no tsunami threat for their areas; however, Australia affirmed its readiness to assist Vanuatu in damage assessments, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasizing the country’s commitment to supporting its neighbor in times of crisis.
Vanuatu, an archipelago consisting of around 80 islands, is historically prone to seismic events due to its location in a geologically active zone, making the region vulnerable to earthquakes and natural disasters.
