A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake has struck close to Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila.
The seismic event has resulted in landslides, damaged vehicles, and the destruction of several structures, notably a complex housing various Western embassies.
Power and mobile networks nationwide have been disrupted, leaving the full extent of the damage uncertain. However, unconfirmed reports indicate that there may be at least one fatality.
Dan McGarry, a reporter based in Port Vila, observed “several people who were visibly, seriously injured” outside the hospital’s emergency department.
Vanuatu experiences frequent seismic activity, yet Mr. McGarry informed the BBC that the earthquake occurring at 12:47 local time (01:47 GMT) was perceived as “the biggest one… in more than 20 years.”
Emergency services are expected to remain occupied for an extended period. “We have limited equipment and capabilities here in Vanuatu,” stated Mr. McGarry, who also reported that police at the Vila Central Hospital informed him of one confirmed death, with expectations that the toll will increase.
A clip shared on the Facebook page of state broadcaster VBTC captured a scene outside Vila Central Hospital. Numerous individuals were seen on hospital gurneys waiting for medical attention.
Michael Thompson, the director of the Vanuatu Jungle Zipline adventure company, reported to the AFP news agency that he had witnessed bodies lying in the streets.
Several buildings have collapsed throughout the town. In a separate video shared on Facebook, Mr Thompson stated, “A significant rescue operation is underway to evacuate individuals who may still be alive in the building.”
“I believed the ceiling of our home was on the verge of collapsing,” Amanda, Mr. Thompson’s wife, shared with the BBC.
“While earthquakes are common in this region, this one stands out as particularly unusual.” The residence exhibits significant structural damage, with large fissures visible throughout and shattered sliding glass doors.
“We are experiencing numerous aftershocks at the moment, each prompting a nervous rush for fresh air,” she stated.
Mr. McGarry emphasized that the recent disaster is a challenge that the people of Vanuatu will ultimately overcome.
Residents of Vanuatu confront natural disasters annually. It runs deep within us. “We will navigate this challenge, though it will come with its share of hardships,” he stated.
Vanuatu is an archipelago comprising approximately 80 islands in the South Pacific. It is situated west of Fiji and thousands of kilometers east of northern Australia.
The country is located in a region known for its seismic activity, making it vulnerable to frequent significant earthquakes and natural disasters.
Damage reported at Western embassies
Several diplomatic missions, including the United States Embassy, the British High Commission, the French Embassy, and the New Zealand High Commission, sustained damage within the same complex.
Officials in the United States reported that the building experienced “considerable damage” and will remain closed until further notice. According to reports, all staff in the building have successfully evacuated.
In a recent development, Australian airline Jetstar has announced the cancellation of a Wednesday morning flight from Sydney to Port Vila. The decision comes in light of “earthquake activity in Vanuatu and reports of possible damage to Port Vila airport infrastructure.”
In the wake of the initial earthquake, the United States Geological Survey has confirmed that Port Vila experienced at least four aftershocks, with magnitudes fluctuating between 4.7 and 5.5 within a two-hour timeframe. A seismic event occurred at 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).
Officials in neighboring New Zealand and Australia have confirmed no tsunami threat to their nations.
Australia has expressed its readiness to assist Vanuatu as damage assessments are conducted.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed solidarity, stating, “Vanuatu is family, and we will always be there in times of need,” in a post on X.
New Zealand has expressed its “deep concern” and actively monitors the situation. Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed solidarity, stating, “Our thoughts are with the people and authorities of Vanuatu.”
