Vanuatu: No initial reports of damage following magnitude 6.4 earthquake near Vanuatu at around 23:44 July 26 /update 1

Event

A severe magnitude-6.4 offshore earthquake occurred near Vanuatu's Maewo Island at around 23:44 July 26. The epicenter was about 95 km (59 miles) east-northeast of Port-Orly. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and strong-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of Penama Province near the epicenter, as well as moderate shaking across much of northern Vanuatu and light shaking in parts of northern and central Vanuatu. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, light-to-moderate damage is possible in areas close to the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Moderate-to-light aftershocks are likely over the coming days; a magnitude-5.2 aftershock occurred in the vicinity of the initial quake at around 00:59 July 27. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) has stated that there is no tsunami threat expected from the tremor.

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.