Destruction and Resilience: Vanuatu Rocked by 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake

A 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Vanuatu, causing significant damage and injuries. Communication issues hindered initial emergency responses. Unconfirmed reports of casualties circulated on social media. The earthquake was followed by aftershocks and prompted a brief tsunami warning. Residents were advised to remain vigilant as the situation unfolded.

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.3 in magnitude struck the island nation of Vanuatu, situated in the South Pacific. The quake, which hit just west of the capital, Port Vila, led to widespread destruction and sent the injured flocking to local hospitals, while escalating concerns about potential casualties.

A tsunami warning was issued but retracted within two hours of the seismic event. Communication lines remained inoperative, impeding official reports. The few available details emerged from social media and sporadic phone calls, as residents depicted scenes of devastation and emergency efforts in progress.

Aftershocks rattled the area, and reports indicated damaged buildings, including diplomatic missions. Emergency services struggled with grounded flights and blocked roads, while international aid pledges from countries like Australia and New Zealand provided a glimmer of hope amid the chaos.

(With inputs from agencies.)