Tsunami Warning Issued After 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake

AFP/APP

Sydney: A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck off the coast of Vanuatu on Tuesday, triggering tsunami waves.

The U.S. Geological Survey reported the tremor, which occurred at a depth of 43 kilometers (27 miles), was located approximately 30 kilometers west of Port Vila, the capital of the Pacific island nation.

According to the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, tsunami waves have been observed following the earthquake, with predictions of waves up to one meter (about three feet) along some sections of Vanuatu’s coastline.

Additionally, smaller tsunami waves of less than 30 centimeters (one foot) above the tidal level are expected for several other Pacific island nations, including Fiji, Kiribati, New Caledonia, the Solomon Islands, and Tuvalu.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as coastal regions prepare for potential impacts.