South Pacific: Tsunami threat passed following magnitude-7.7 earthquake southeast of the Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia May 19 /update 3

Event

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has issued an update following a major magnitude-7.7 earthquake in the South Pacific on May 19 advising that the tsunami threat following the tremor has now largely passed. Tsunami waves have been observed and minor sea level fluctuations are still possible over the coming hours; however, no damage has been immediately reported and there is no further threat of major coastal flooding in the affected region. Wave heights of 0.61 meters (2 feet) were recorded in Vanuatu as well as minor fluctuations in parts of New Caledonia, the Kermadec Islands, and northern New Zealand. Authorities in New Zealand have issued an advisory for strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges at the shore from Cape Reinga to Whanganui and Cape Reinga to Tolaga Bay in North Island, and for the western coasts of the South Island from Farewell Spit to Milford Sound. People are advised to leave the water and vessels are advised to return to shore; however, there is no order to evacuate unless directed explicitly by authorities. Authorities in Australia are maintaining a marine tsunami warning for Lord Howe Island. Authorities in Vanuatu previously issued a tsunami advisory warning urging people in coastal areas to move to higher ground and authorities in New Caledonia ordered the evacuation of coastal areas but have since lifted the tsunami warning.

The severe magnitude-7.7 earthquake occurred southeast of the Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia, at around 13:57 NCT May 19. The epicenter was about 452 km (281 miles) east-southeast of Noumea. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 38 km (24 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout the Loyalty Islands in New Caledonia and southern Tafea Province in Vanuatu. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties due to the earthquake. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are possible over the coming hours and 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.

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. Cellular networks may be overwhelmed; use text messaging if services are available.