Vanuatu Earthquake: Two strong earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 6.9 in magnitude, were reported in the South Pacific near the Vanuatu Islands on Saturday. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the first quake struck around 200 km west of Sola at a depth of 10 km. The second tremor, measuring 6.9 in magnitude followed about 25 seconds later, nearly 197 km west-northwest of Port-Olry, at the same depth.

Tsunami Warning Issued

Following the twin earthquakes, authorities issued a local tsunami warning, urging people in coastal areas to move to higher ground immediately. Hazardous waves were expected along coastlines within 300 km of the epicenter. However, the National Tsunami Warning Center later stated that the threat had passed and there was no further tsunami threat from the earthquake.

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According to seismic assessments, Vanuatu has experienced 72 earthquakes over the past 30 days, with the strongest measuring 6.9 magnitude on Saturday. The frequent seismic activity is linked to the island nation’s location along the Pacific Ring of Fire which is one of the world’s most active earthquake zones.

2024 Vanuatu Earthquake

Earlier on December 17, 2024, the island nation was hit by a powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake near Port Vila, its capital. At least 14 people were killed and 265 others injured in the disaster. The earthquake had caused widespread damage in Port Vila and nearby areas. It also triggered a tsunami with waves reaching 25 cm.

Pacific Ring Of Fire In Focus

The recent earthquakes have also renewed attention over the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is a large, horseshoe-shaped area around the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur. The region stretches across countries such as Japan, Russia, Indonesia, New Zealand and parts of North and South America. It is home to around 90 per cent of the world's earthquakes and about 75 per cent of its active and dormant volcanoes.

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