New Caledonia, Vanuatu: Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in South Pacific Ocean at around 05:36 Dec. 20

A magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurred in the South Pacific Ocean at around 05:36 Dec. 20. The epicenter was about 126 km (78 miles) southwest of Isangel, Vanuatu. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 26 km (16 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of New Caledonia's Loyalty Islands Province and southern Vanuatu. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; 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.