Buildings Flattened as 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake Devastates Vanuatu

7.3 Magnitude Earthquake Devastates Vanuatu: Buildings Flattened and Lives Disrupted

A powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, leaving destruction in its wake. Multiple buildings, including a complex housing Western embassies, have been flattened, and landslides have blocked critical routes. There are unconfirmed reports of casualties, with at least one death reported by hospital authorities.

This disaster has also disrupted power and mobile networks across the island, further complicating rescue operations. Emergency services are racing to rescue survivors from the rubble amidst ongoing aftershocks.

Widespread Damage and Unconfirmed Death Toll

Dan McGarry, a journalist based in Port Vila, described the quake as the most intense in over 20 years. “The number of deaths is expected to rise,” he told the BBC. Michael Thompson, a local business owner, reported seeing bodies on the streets and confirmed severe injuries among residents.

Videos shared on social media show residents outside the Vila Central Hospital, with many lying on gurneys awaiting medical attention.

Western Embassies Severely Damaged

Among the affected structures is a complex housing the embassies of the United States, Britain, France, and New Zealand. Officials confirmed considerable damage to these buildings, but all staff safely evacuated.

US officials stated that their embassy would remain closed until further notice. Similarly, Australian airlines, including Jetstar, canceled flights into Port Vila, citing potential airport infrastructure damage.

Aftershocks and International Support

The United States Geological Survey recorded at least four aftershocks, ranging from 4.7 to 5.5 magnitudes, within hours of the initial quake. Despite the devastation, authorities in Australia and New Zealand confirmed there was no tsunami threat to their nations.

Australia expressed readiness to assist Vanuatu, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong stating, “Vanuatu is family, and we will always be there in times of need.” New Zealand echoed similar sentiments, offering support and monitoring the situation closely.

A Nation Prone to Disasters

Vanuatu, an archipelago of about 80 islands, sits in the Pacific’s seismically active “Ring of Fire.” The region experiences frequent earthquakes, cyclones, and tsunamis. Despite this, residents remain resilient. “Natural disasters are part of life here; we’ll get through this, though not without suffering,” McGarry said.