Strong and shallow M6.7 earthquake hits Vanuatu – small tsunami waves produced

A strong and shallow earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.7 hit Vanuatu at 04:47 UTC (15:47 LT) on November 22, 2023. The agency is reporting a depth of 22.5 km (14 miles). EMSC is reporting M6.7 at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles); BMKG M7.0 at a depth of 12 km (7.5 miles).

The epicenter was located 98 km (60.9 miles) E of Port-Olry (population 1 951) and 106.3 km (66 miles) NE of Luganville (population 13 397), Sanma, Vanuatu.

2 000 people are estimated to have felt very strong shaking, 10 000 strong, 22 000 moderate, and 138 000 light.

Small tsunami waves have been observed, NWS PTWC said. People in coastal areas near the earthquake should be observant and exercise normal caution.

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.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Selected cities exposed

Regional seismicity

Featured image credit: TW/SAM, Google