7.3 magnitude earthquake rocks Vanuatu: buildings damaged, cars crushed

A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu on Tuesday, causing severe destruction in the capital, Port Vila. The quake, which hit at 12:47 pm local time, was centered 30 kilometers off the coast of Vanuatu’s main island, Efate, at a depth of 57 kilometers.

Buildings, including one housing several embassies, were significantly damaged. Michael Thompson, a resident, reported that the ground floor of a building containing the US, French, and other embassies had collapsed, with the top three floors still standing but severely damaged. “If there was anyone in there, they’re gone,” he said.

The US embassy confirmed “considerable damage” to its mission and closed it until further notice. The New Zealand High Commission also reported significant damage. Rescue efforts were quickly underway, with emergency vehicles and uniformed rescuers seen on-site in footage shared by Thompson. The destruction included collapsed bridges and a landslide that covered a bus, causing further casualties.

Thompson noted that the streets were littered with broken glass and debris from damaged buildings. Additionally, a roof had collapsed onto parked cars, crushing them. “There were bodies there when we walked past,” Thompson added, indicating the gravity of the situation. Mobile networks were largely cut off, complicating communication and rescue efforts.

A tsunami warning was issued following the quake but was later lifted. Vanuatu, part of the seismic Ring of Fire, is frequently affected by earthquakes, storms, and tsunamis. The country is known for its vulnerability to natural disasters, making the current disaster particularly devastating.