scene from earthquake in vanuata
BREAKING: Powerful 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Vanuatu, Tsunami Threat Lifted
A massive 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck near Port Vila, Vanuatu, on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 1:47 UTC. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred 54 kilometers west of Port Vila, the nation’s largest city, at a shallow depth of 10 km. A tsunami warning was issued for the island nation but was called off less than two hours later.
Earthquake Details and Aftershock
The initial quake, described as one of the most powerful to hit Vanuatu in recent history, was followed by a magnitude 5.5 aftershock near the same location. The tremor sent shockwaves across the South Pacific island nation, home to about 330,000 people spread across 80 islands. Its epicenter was located 30 km west of Port Vila.
Extent of Damage and Rescue Efforts
While the full extent of damages remains unclear due to disrupted communications, early reports suggest widespread destruction. Phone lines, government websites, and official communication channels were down for several hours after the quake.
Video footage shared by the Vanuatu Broadcasting and Television Corporation (VBTC) depicted chaotic scenes outside Vila Central Hospital, where injured individuals were being lifted onto stretchers by crowds. Social media images revealed collapsed buildings, buckled windows, and cars crushed under debris.
One of the most severely impacted structures was a building housing multiple diplomatic missions, including the United States, Britain, France, and New Zealand. New Zealand’s Foreign Ministry confirmed significant damage to the structure and reported that officials were accounting for staff from their High Commission.
U.S. Embassy and Structural Damage
A general view of the damage revealed structural issues at the U.S. Embassy in Port Vila, where the first floor reportedly sustained significant damage. Witnesses described rescuers rushing to the scene to assist those potentially trapped inside.
Red Cross Response
A Red Cross spokesperson in Fiji said their Vanuatu office had reported substantial damage before communication lines were severed. Workers on the ground continue to assess the situation and assist survivors. Landslides triggered by the quake have reportedly blocked key roads, hindering rescue operations in some areas.
Tsunami Threat Rescinded
Initially, authorities issued a tsunami warning for Vanuatu and surrounding regions. However, the warning was lifted within two hours after assessments showed no significant tsunami threat. Despite this, officials have urged residents to remain cautious and stay alert.
Community Impact and Global Support
Residents of Port Vila described the earthquake as a “terrifying” experience. Shelves in shops were overturned, buildings crumbled, and people fled to open spaces in search of safety. International organizations and neighboring countries are monitoring the situation closely, offering support where needed.
Conclusion
As Vanuatu recovers from this devastating earthquake, rescue and relief efforts remain underway. Authorities are working to restore communication lines and assess the full scope of the damage. For now, the island nation stands resilient, with hopes of a quick recovery amid this natural disaster.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
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