A substantial earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale struck Vanuatu on Tuesday, causing widespread destruction and reportedly resulting in 14 fatalities. The quake disrupted communications and damaged various structures, including diplomatic buildings in Port Vila.
Centered 30 kilometers west of Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, the earthquake occurred at a depth of approximately 57.1 kilometers, according to data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Shortly after the initial tremor, a significant aftershock measuring 5.5 was recorded, followed by 14 further aftershocks with a magnitude of 4.0 or above.
The destruction was severe, with reports indicating that buildings crumbled, vehicles were crushed, and landslides obstructed access near the international shipping terminal in Port Vila. Many individuals were feared to be trapped under the debris. Given the communication challenges, the official death toll remains uncertain, but initial reports suggest at least 14 casualties with 200 more individuals sustaining injuries, according to Katie Greenwood of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
The devastating quake also impacted the diplomatic complex that houses various Western embassies, including those of the United States, New Zealand, France, and the United Kingdom. The US Embassy building suffered significant damage, though all personnel were reported safe and accounted for, as confirmed by officials from the US Embassy in Port Moresby. China’s state broadcaster, CCTV, reported that two Chinese citizens perished in the incident.
Social media posts depicted the damage, revealing the partial collapse of the building’s ground floor where Western embassies were located. Despite the structural damage, no fatalities were reported among the embassy staff. Rescue operations and medical assistance are underway as volunteers from the Red Cross prepare to aid those affected.
In Port Vila and surrounding regions, the destruction extended beyond buildings to essential infrastructure. Greenwood noted the extensive damage, which she described as amongst the worst earthquake impacts witnessed in the Pacific. The aftermath of the quake left government websites offline and rendered many public agency phone lines inoperative.
Tsunami warnings were initially issued but subsequently lifted. Although no significant tsunami was expected, minor fluctuations in sea levels were anticipated along some coastal areas. The USGS assessed the quake’s economic impact as severe, potentially affecting Vanuatu’s economy by 1 to 10% of its GDP, with over 73,000 people experiencing intense shaking.
The earthquake in Vanuatu has revealed the vulnerability of the region to natural disasters, challenging both local authorities and international aid organizations in their response efforts. As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on providing relief to those affected and rebuilding the damaged infrastructure.
