Coral Sea: Magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake occurs in between Solomon Islands and Vanuatu Nov. 16

A magnitude-5.4 offshore earthquake occurred in the Coral Sea near the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu at around 19:22 Nov. 16. The epicenter was about 191 km (119 miles) south-southeast of Lata, Solomon Islands. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 151 km (94 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in Southern Solomon Islands and northern Vanuatu. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. 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 where shaking occurred.