Vanuatu: Minor damages following New Caledonia earthquake Dec. 5 /update 4

Event

A surge of water reportedly moved about 200 m (656 Ft) inland of the southern island of Aneityum following the 7.5-magnitude earthquake that struck the eastern coast of New Caledonia at 15:18 (local time) on Wednesday, December 5. Some schools and houses were damaged, but no injuries were reported as local residents managed to flee to higher ground.

Context

A 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck 168 km (104 mi) southeast of Tadine (New Caledonia) followed by at least eight powerful aftershocks ranging in magnitude from 4.9 to 5.9.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to evacuate low-lying coastal areas, monitor developments to the situation, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.