24 Sep 2022 | 08:17 PM UTC
Vanuatu: Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs near Espiritu Santo at around 06:38 VUT Sept. 25
Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs near Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu, at 06:38 VUT Sept. 25. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurred Vanuatu's Espiritu Santo island at around 06:38 VUT Sept. 25. The epicenter was about 11 km (7 miles) west of Port-Olry, Vanuatu. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 38 km (23 miles), and light-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of Espiritu Santo. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
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 in areas where shaking occurred.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
