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On December 17, 2024, at 12:47 PM Vanuatu time, a powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck 30 kilometers off the coast of Port Vila, the nation’s capital. The tremor lasted 30 seconds but left devastation in its wake.
- Major Earthquake Strikes Vanuatu: A 7.3 magnitude earthquake near Port Vila on December 17, 2024, caused widespread devastation, with 14 lives lost, 200 injured, and severe infrastructure damage.
- Tsunami and Economic Impact: A small tsunami followed the quake, affecting 116,000 people and causing economic losses projected at 10% of Vanuatu’s GDP.
- Disrupted Communications: Local networks failed, but Starlink provided critical connectivity as rescue efforts began.
- International Support Mobilized: A state of emergency was declared, with Australia and other nations stepping in to aid recovery and rescue operations.
A Seismic Catastrophe
The earthquake, classified as oblique-slip, occurred at a depth of 57.1 kilometers. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded a maximum slip of 3 meters. Shaking reached a violent intensity (MMI IX), causing buildings to pancake and triggering landslides that blocked roads and buried structures.
Human and Infrastructural Toll
The disaster claimed 14 lives, including two Chinese nationals, and injured 200 others. Landslides and building collapses accounted for most fatalities. Key infrastructure, including the Port Vila International Shipping Terminal and Bauerfield International Airport, suffered severe damage. Two bridges collapsed, and a hospital, reservoirs, and government buildings were affected.
Communication networks faltered, but Starlink provided critical connectivity. The local broadcasting corporation went offline, adding to the chaos.
Tsunami and Economic Impact
A 25 cm tsunami struck Vanuatu’s shores. The United Nations estimated that 116,000 people were directly affected. Economic losses are expected to reach up to 10% of the country’s GDP.
Emergency Response and International Aid
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre issued and later lifted a tsunami warning. Local authorities mobilized rescue teams and established triage centers for mass casualties. Prime Minister Charlot Salwai declared a state of emergency and requested international assistance. Australia deployed rescue and medical teams.
A Region at Risk
Located at the convergence of the Australian and Pacific plates, Vanuatu frequently experiences tectonic activity. This earthquake underscores the need for robust disaster preparedness in the region.
Recovery efforts continue as Vanuatu navigates the aftermath of this catastrophic event.