7.3 Magnitude Quake Hits Near Port Vila, Vanuatu; U.S. Embassy Damaged, Tsunami Warning Issued

Dec 17, 2024, 05:12 AM

A magnitude 7.3 to 7.4 earthquake struck near Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu, in the South Pacific Ocean on Tuesday. The U.S. Geological Survey reported the tremor occurred at a depth of around 10 kilometers, with the epicenter approximately 30 kilometers west of Port Vila. The quake caused significant damage to buildings, including the U.S. embassy, which sustained considerable damage and has been closed until further notice, though all staff are safe and accounted for. Reports indicate that other embassies were also damaged. A tsunami warning was initially issued but later canceled. The earthquake was followed by aftershocks, including one of magnitude 5.5. There are reports of casualties, with witnesses citing bodies seen in the streets, and rescue efforts are underway to reach people trapped under collapsed buildings. Communications in some areas have been disrupted, and local authorities are assessing the extent of the damage.