Devastation Strikes Vanuatu as 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake Hits

A recent 7.3 magnitude earthquake shook Vanuatu's capital, Port Vila, causing destruction across the region, including landslides and the collapse of buildings housing western embassies. Emergency services face challenges as they evaluate injuries, with initial reports indicating fatalities and aftershocks continuing to shake the area.

In a devastating turn of events, Vanuatu has been struck by a powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake near its capital, Port Vila, resulting in widespread destruction and cutting off power and mobile networks. The quake, which struck at 12:47 local time (01:47 GMT), triggered landslides, crushed vehicles, and flattened numerous structures, including a complex housing embassies from several western countries.

Local journalist Dan McGarry reported witnessing many seriously injured individuals outside the emergency department of the Vila Central Hospital. While official casualty figures are still being assessed, he mentioned an early report of at least one death, adding that the toll may rise as rescue operations progress. "Emergency services are going to be busy for a while," he noted, emphasizing the limited resources available.

The earthquake was described by McGarry as one of the most significant in over two decades, a sentiment echoed by residents. Many individuals were seen gathering outside the hospital, some on gurneys awaiting critical care. Michael Thompson, who operates a tourism business nearby, reported seeing bodies on the streets and emphasized that extensive rescue efforts were underway to locate survivors trapped in fallen buildings.

Thompson's wife, Amanda, shared their frightening experience during the earthquake, detailing extensive damage to their home and the anxiety caused by ongoing aftershocks. Despite the scope of the disaster, McGarry expressed confidence in Vanuatu's resilience, stating that the local populace has weathered numerous natural calamities over the years: "It's in our blood."

Vanuatu, consisting of around 80 islands in the South Pacific, is situated in a region known for seismic activity. Among the buildings affected are the United States Embassy, the British High Commission, the French Embassy, and the New Zealand High Commission, all located in the same complex. US officials reported considerable damage and confirmed that all staff were safely evacuated.

In response to the earthquake, Australian airline Jetstar cancelled flights between Sydney and Port Vila, citing concerns over damage to airport infrastructure. The United States Geological Survey recorded multiple aftershocks, with magnitudes between 4.7 and 5.5 within the following hours.

Authorities in neighboring countries, including Australia and New Zealand, have been monitoring the situation closely, with Australia pledging support as damage assessments take place. Foreign Minister Penny Wong offered assurance of Australia's readiness to assist, while New Zealand expressed deep concern for those affected.

Residents in Vanuatu have been encouraged to share their experiences if it is safe to do so, as the community comes together to face this latest disaster.