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“Devastating 7.3-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Vanuatu, Flattening Buildings”

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7.3-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Vanuatu, Causing Widespread Damage and Casualties

A powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, on Tuesday, leading to widespread destruction. Buildings were flattened, including a complex housing several Western embassies, while landslides and fallen debris crushed vehicles. There are unconfirmed reports of deaths, but the full scale of the disaster remains unclear as power and mobile networks are down across the region.

Dan McGarry, a local journalist, reported that hospital authorities confirmed at least one fatality, with several others seriously injured. He noted the earthquake’s intensity, stating that it felt like the largest quake Vanuatu had experienced in over two decades.

The quake struck at 12:47 local time (01:47 GMT), and emergency services are overwhelmed, with limited resources at hand. McGarry noted the growing death toll and shared images of injured people outside Vila Central Hospital. Multiple buildings have collapsed around town, and rescue efforts are underway to free possible survivors from the wreckage.

The quake’s aftershocks have continued, making the situation even more precarious for residents. Local authorities and residents are bracing for further tremors while helping those affected by the destruction.

Among the damaged buildings are the United States, British, French, and New Zealand embassies. The US Embassy reported significant damage to its building, which has been closed temporarily while staff were safely evacuated. Australian airlines, including Jetstar, have canceled flights to Port Vila due to damage at the airport.

Vanuatu, an archipelago of 80 islands in the South Pacific, is highly susceptible to natural disasters due to its location in a seismically active region. Neighbouring countries, including Australia and New Zealand, have expressed solidarity, offering support as damage assessments continue.

Authorities have confirmed that there is no tsunami threat for the region.

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