A Violent Earthquake Strikes Vanuatu Archipelago
On December 17, 2024, a powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck the Vanuatu archipelago in the Pacific Ocean, causing widespread devastation, particularly in the capital city of Port Vila. Eyewitness accounts report that the ground floor of the buildings housing the US and French embassies was crushed under the weight of collapsed upper floors. Local resident Michael Thompson described the scene, stating that bodies were seen in the streets amidst the destruction.
The earthquake, which occurred approximately 20 kilometers from Port Vila, led to the collapse of bridges, landslides, and significant communication disruptions across the region. Videos circulating on social media depict severe damage to the embassy buildings, with the first floors appearing to have caved in. Fortunately, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has indicated that there is no longer a tsunami threat, and the US Geological Survey confirmed that there is no tsunami risk to nearby US territories, including Guam and Samoa.
The US Geological Survey reported that the earthquake's epicenter was located 43 kilometers below sea level and just 30 kilometers west of Port Vila, intensifying concerns over the structural integrity of buildings in the area. As rescue efforts begin, the focus remains on assessing the full extent of the damage and providing aid to those affected.
