South Pacific: Tsunami threat messages and advisories ongoing following magnitude-7.1 earthquake near Vanuatu at around 23:56 Dec. 7 /update 1

A severe magnitude-7.1 earthquake occurred in the South Pacific south of Vanuatu at around 23:56 VUT Dec. 7. The epicenter was around 125 km (78 miles) south of Isangel, Vanuatu. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 48 km (30 miles), and moderate-to-light shaking was probably felt in parts of southern Vanuatu and the Loyalty Islands, New Caledonia. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, some 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.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a tsunami threat message immediately after the quake occurred, warning of possible tsunami waves in coastal areas of Vanuatu and New Caledonia within a 300km (186 miles) radius of the epicenter. The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department has also issued a tsunami advisory and has warned people in Tafea Province to take appropriate action due to the potential for imminent tsunami waves, including the immediate evacuation of coastal areas to higher ground.

Moderate-to-light aftershocks are likely within 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.