South Pacific: Magintude-6.7 offshore earthquake occurs east of the Loyalty Islands Sept. 14

Event

A magnitude-6.7 earthquake occurred in the South Pacific Ocean south-southeast of the Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia, at around 22:04 Sept. 14. The epicenter was about 210 km (130 miles) south-southeast of Isangel, Vanuatu. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 143 km (89 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout the Loyalty Islands and parts of far southern New Caledonia, as well as southern islands of Vanuatu. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light-to-moderate aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has released a statement stating that based on all available data there is no tsunami threat from this earthquake. Officials could possibly update assessments in the coming hours.

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.

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.

Out of an abundance of caution, consider moving away from low-lying coastal areas until local authorities determine that no local tsunami threat exists.