24 Dec 2023 | 02:36 AM UTC
Vanuatu, New Caledonia: Magnitude-5.8 offshore earthquake occurs in Coral Sea off Tafea Province at around 12:59 VUT Dec. 24
Magnitude-5.8 offshore earthquake occurs off Tafea Province, Vanuatu, at around 12:59 VUT Dec. 24. No initial reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-5.8 offshore earthquake occurred in the Coral Sea off Tafea Province, Vanuatu, at around 12:59 VUT Dec. 24. The epicenter was about 117 km (72 miles) south-southwest of Isangel, Tafea Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking is possible throughout southern Vanuatu as well as the Loyalty Islands Province of New Caledonia. 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. 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.
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.
