01 Mar 2021 | 04:09 AM UTC
Vanuatu: Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred in the Coral Sea, near Torba Province, at 1429 VUT March 1
Magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurs in Coral Sea, near Vanuatu's Torba Province, at 1429 VUT March 1. No initial reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.4 earthquake occurred in the Coral Sea, near the Torres Islands in Torba Province, northern Vanuatu, at 1429 VUT March 1. The epicenter was about 119 km (74 miles) northwest of Sola and 259 km (160 miles) north-northwest of Luganville. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 71 km (44 miles) and may have triggered light shaking near the epicenter and other areas of northern Vanuatu. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are possible over the coming days.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Advice
Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.
