According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), a 7.3-magnitude earthquake occurred off the coast of Vanuatu in the South Pacific on Tuesday, with its epicentre close to Port Vila, the major city on the island nation. In the same area, a huge 5.5 earthquake occurred shortly after the first one.
The epicenter was 42 kilometers (26 miles) south-southwest of Acari, with the earthquake hitting at 0918 GMT (4:18 a.m. EST) at a depth of 12.1 kilometers (about 7.5 miles).
Initially, the US Pacific Tsunami Warning Center warned that “hazardous tsunami waves are forecast for some coasts” and that Peru and Chile would see larger-than-normal waves. In a subsequent statement, however, the center claimed that “there is no longer a tsunami threat from this earthquake” and that no tsunami waves had been spotted.
Vanuatu, a country of 80 islands with a population of over 330,000, is situated in the Pacific’s “Ring of Fire,” a seismic zone where earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are frequent occurrences.
As they evaluate the possible effects on the community, officials are keeping a careful eye on the situation. There have been no immediate reports of casualties or damage. In addition to taking precautions against potential aftershocks and coastal risks, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant for information from local authorities.
