Magnitude 7.3 earthquake hits Pacific island nation of Vanuatu

A powerful magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck off the coast of Vanuatu on Tuesday afternoon, December 17, 2024, causing significant damage and prompting tsunami warnings. The quake’s epicenter was located approximately 30 kilometers west of the capital, Port Vila, at a depth of 57 kilometers.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center reported observed and predicted waves up to one meter along Vanuatu’s coastline. Neighboring Pacific nations, including Fiji, Kiribati, New Caledonia, Solomon Islands, and Tuvalu, were also alerted to potential tsunami waves. However, the Bureau of Meteorology confirmed no tsunami threat to Australia.

The earthquake caused significant structural damage, including collapsed bridges and buildings. Notably, a building housing the U.S. and French embassies suffered severe damage, with its ground floor crushed under higher floors. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with reports of injuries and casualties, though exact numbers remain unconfirmed due to disrupted communications.
The earthquake was followed by a magnitude 5.5 aftershock near the same location. Authorities are conducting assessments and coordinating relief efforts as the situation develops.