Another shallow M6.2 earthquake hits Vanuatu

A strong and shallow earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.2 hit Vanuatu at 06:12 UTC (17:12 LT) on September 7, 2020, at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). EMSC is reporting M6.2 at a depth of 17 km (10.5 miles).

The epicenter was located 74 km (46 miles) NNE of Port-Vila (population 35 901) and 160 km (100 miles) SE of Lakatoro (population 705), Vanuatu.

There are about 100 000 people living within 100 km (62 miles).

6 000 people are estimated to have felt strong shaking, 7 000 moderate, and 128 000 light.

Based on all available data, there is no tsunami threat from this earthquake, PTWC said.

The USGS issued a green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are highly vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though some resistant structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are unknown/miscellaneous types and wood construction.

Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides that might have contributed to losses.

This area was hit by several moderately strong earthquakes over the past 2 days, including M6.2 at 02:59 UTC on September 6.

Image credit: TW/SAM, Google

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Selected cities exposed

Regional seismicity

Featured image credit: TW/SAM, Google