01 Jan 2025 | 05:08 AM UTC
Vanuatu: Magnitude-5.6 offshore earthquake occurs in Coral Sea off Tafea Province at around 15:39 Jan. 1
Magnitude-5.6 offshore earthquake occurs off Tafea Province in southern Vanuatu at 15:39 Jan. 1. No initial reports of damage or injuries.
A magnitude-5.6 offshore earthquake occurred in the Coral Sea off Tafea Province, southern Vanuatu, at around 15:39 Jan. 1. The epicenter was about 149 km (92 miles) south of Isangel on Tanna Island. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt in parts of southern Tafea Province in Vanuatu and southern Loyalty Islands, including Tadine on Mare island, in 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.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
