Magnitude 6.4 earthquake hits Vanuatu, in the Pacific
A magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck off the coast of Vanuatu, but authorities confirmed there were no reports of damage or casualties.
On March 13, 2023, a magnitude 6.4 earthquake hit the coast of Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation known for its seismic activity. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the quake's epicenter was located approximately 50 kilometers west of Port Olry on the island of Espiritu Santo. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties in the region, which is a relief for the residents and authorities following such seismic events.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center indicated that there was no tsunami threat related to this earthquake, further alleviating fears among the population. Local residents experienced the tremor, with Angelic Frank, a staff member at a resort in Port Olry, describing the quake as 'very strong' and lasting about a minute, highlighting the intensity of the seismic activity.
Vanuatu is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region characterized by frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to tectonic activity. Given that Vanuatu has a population of around 320,000 and is prone to such natural events, the government and communities routinely prepare for potential disasters while remaining vigilant about the unpredictability of the earth's movements in this geologically active area.