Strong and shallow M6.4 earthquake hits near Port-Olry, Vanuatu

The epicenter was located 53 km (33 miles) WNW of Port-Olry (population 1 951), 92 km (57 miles) NW of Luganville (population 13 397), and 365 km (227 miles) NNW of Port-Vila (population 35 901), Vanuatu.

1 000 people are estimated to have felt very strong shaking, 5 000 strong, 15 000 moderate, 100 000 light, and 54 000 weak.

Based on all available data, there is no tsunami threat from this earthquake, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (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 or wood construction.

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

Liquefaction effects are not expected to be widespread. Only localized areas may have experienced ground failure. Landslides are estimated to be limited, occurring mainly in steep terrain.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Selected cities exposed

Regional seismicity

References:

¹ M6.4 earthquake near Port-Olry, Vanuatu – USGS – February 14, 2026

² M6.5 earthquake near Port-Olry, Vanuatu – EMSC – February 14, 2026