A powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu on Tuesday, causing significant damage to the US embassy and other buildings in Port Vila, the capital. The quake, which occurred about 57 kilometers deep, hit shortly after noon local time, causing partial collapse and widespread destruction. At least one person was reported dead, and Red Cross teams are assisting affected communities.
“The US Embassy in Port Vila is closed until further notice due to considerable damage,” said a spokesperson for the embassy in Papua New Guinea. The US Geological Survey has issued a ‘yellow pager,’ indicating significant economic and human impact with localized damage.
This earthquake marks a critical moment for Vanuatu, a Pacific nation of 330,000, already facing challenges from its geographic location. The international community, including New Zealand, which also experienced damage to its High Commission, is responding with support.
“With Vanuatu’s vulnerability to natural disasters, the assistance and solidarity of our partners are crucial,” said Katie Greenwood from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The US remains committed to supporting recovery efforts in Vanuatu as it rebuilds from this disaster.
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