Vanuatu: Magnitude 5.3 offshore earthquake occurs north of Espiritu Santo Island Jan. 5

Event

A magnitude-5.3 offshore earthquake occurred in Bay Bay north of Espiritu Santo Island at around 18:00 Jan. 5. The epicenter was about 25 km (16 miles) west-northwest of Port-Olry. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 24 km (15 miles), and weak-to-light shaking was probably felt throughout Malampa, Penama, Sanma, and Torba provinces. 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. Light aftershocks are possible 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, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.

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.