Vanuatu: Magnitude-6.1 offshore earthquake occurs west of Maewo Island at around 19:17 May 8

A magnitude-6.1 earthquake occurred off the west coast of Maewo Island at around 19:17 May 8. The epicenter was about 99 km (61 miles) east-northeast of Luganville, Espiritu Santo Island. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 12 km (7 miles), and strong-to-moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of Penama Province close to the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout parts of northern and central Vanuatu. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; some minor damage is possible in areas of western Maewo Island close to the epicenter. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Moderate aftershocks are likely 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.