Vanuatu: 6.7-magnitude earthquake strikes islands August 22

Event

A 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck 78 km (48 mi) east of Lakatoro (Vanuatu), near the northern end of Ambrym Island, at 09:32 (local time) on Wednesday, August 22. No tsunami warning was issued. Further details, including regarding potential casualties and material damages, are still emerging. Aftershocks are possible in the affected area in the coming hours and days.

Advice

Individuals present in the impacted region are advised to monitor the situation, be prepared for further aftershocks, and heed all instructions issued by local authorities.

During an earthquake, individuals are advised to protect themselves as much as possible from falling debris if indoors (e.g. under a table), to move away from windows and exterior walls, and do not attempt to leave the building unless there is an immediate danger. If outdoors, move away from any tall structures, such as buildings, utility wires, and streetlights.