Massive Earthquake Flattens Buildings in Vanuatu’s Capital US Embassy Damaged

A powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake has struck near Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu, causing widespread destruction, landslides, and cutting off power and communication lines. The quake, which hit at 12:47 PM local time on Tuesday, led to collapsed buildings, crushed cars, and chaos in the city. Relief agencies and local authorities report at least one confirmed death so far, with fears that the number could rise as rescue efforts continue.

Unfolding Disaster in Port Vila

The earthquake’s epicentre was located 30 kilometres west of Port Vila at a depth of 10 kilometres, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Vanuatu, a nation with 80 islands in the South Pacific, is accustomed to earthquakes, but this one has been described as the most severe in over 20 years.

“It was terrifying. The entire house shook like never before,” Amanda Thompson, a resident, told local reporters. “We ran outside as the walls cracked and glass shattered. The aftershocks are keeping everyone on edge.”

Dan McGarry, a journalist based in Port Vila, described the scenes as overwhelming. “Buildings have crumbled, and cars are crushed under debris. People are injured, and the hospitals are overwhelmed with those seeking treatment. This earthquake was the biggest we’ve felt in decades.”

Hospitals Overwhelmed, Search and Rescue Underway

Outside Vila Central Hospital, crowds of injured and distressed people gathered, waiting for medical attention. Video footage shared by state broadcaster Vanuatu Broadcasting and Television Corporation (VBTC) showed dozens of people lying on gurneys outside the hospital as emergency workers scrambled to manage the situation.

“We saw injured people being carried into hospitals, and some were visibly in serious condition,” McGarry said. “The emergency services are stretched thin, and they have limited resources to respond to a disaster of this scale.”

The International Red Cross confirmed that their teams were already on the ground, assisting the injured and helping clear debris. The Red Cross regional head, Katie Greenwood, said, “The damage is extensive. Entire buildings have collapsed, especially in downtown Port Vila, and infrastructure in surrounding areas is severely impacted. We are concerned about those trapped under rubble.”

Diplomatic Missions Damaged

One of the hardest-hit buildings in Port Vila was a complex that houses several Western embassies, including the United States Embassy, the New Zealand High Commission, and the French and British embassies. Photos and videos on social media show the building’s lower floors partially collapsed, with debris covering the ground and shattered glass windows.

The US Embassy confirmed that it had suffered “considerable damage” and would remain closed until further notice. Fortunately, all staff evacuated safely. “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this earthquake,” a US spokesperson said. “The US government is working closely with Vanuatu and its partners to assist in the recovery.”

New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that its High Commission office was severely damaged but confirmed that staff were safe. “We are monitoring the situation closely and are ready to support the people of Vanuatu in any way we can,” New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said.

Transportation Disrupted

In the aftermath of the quake, transportation has been heavily disrupted. Landslides near Port Vila’s international shipping terminal blocked access to key areas, hampering relief efforts. Several airlines, including Australian carrier Jetstar, have cancelled flights into Port Vila, citing possible damage to the airport’s infrastructure.

“The runway and terminal are being assessed for damage. Safety is our top priority, and flights will resume once authorities confirm the airport is safe for operations,” Jetstar said.

Communication Blackout and Unconfirmed Reports

Communication lines nationwide have been severely affected, with offline phone networks and government websites. This has made it difficult to gather accurate information about the full scale of the damage or to confirm the total number of casualties. Relief agencies and journalists on the ground report that at least one person has died, but this number is expected to rise as rescue teams search through the rubble.

Michael Thompson, who runs a tourism business in Vanuatu, described the destruction as heartbreaking. “We saw bodies on the streets, and many people are still trapped. Rescue workers are trying their best, but it’s hard with limited resources and equipment,” he said in a Facebook video.

Aftershocks and Tsunami Threat

USGS reported at least four aftershocks near Port Vila in the hours following the main earthquake, with magnitudes ranging from 4.7 to 5.5. These aftershocks rattle residents, many afraid to return to their damaged homes.

Initial tsunami warnings were issued for the region but were later cancelled. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center confirmed that there was “no longer a tsunami threat,” although it warned that minor sea level fluctuations could occur near the coastline.

International Response and Support

The earthquake occurred when Vanuatu was strengthening its relationships with international partners. The US Embassy in Vanuatu only opened in July 2023 as part of a broader effort to increase its diplomatic presence in the Pacific region.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed solidarity with the people of Vanuatu, saying, “Vanuatu is family, and we will always stand ready to support them in times of need.” Australia has pledged emergency aid and resources to assist in recovery efforts.

New Zealand and other neighbouring countries are also on high alert, monitoring the situation and preparing to provide aid.

Vanuatu’s Resilience

Vanuatu sits in the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a region known for its high seismic activity. Earthquakes and natural disasters are common, but this latest quake has been described as one of the most devastating in decades.

“Natural disasters are part of life here. It’s in our blood to get through these difficult times,” McGarry said. “The people of Vanuatu are resilient, but this will take time to recover. There will be suffering, but we will rebuild.”

Local authorities have urged residents to remain calm, stay outdoors if their homes are unsafe, and await further updates from emergency services.

Ongoing Challenges

As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the challenges remain immense. Limited medical facilities, power outages, and blocked roads slow the response. Relief agencies are working to provide emergency supplies, including clean water, food, and shelter, to those affected.

The earthquake has also raised concerns about the economic impact on Vanuatu. USGS estimates that financial losses could range between 1% and 10% of the nation’s GDP. With tourism being a key part of Vanuatu’s economy, destroying infrastructure and businesses will be a significant setback.

Looking Ahead

As Vanuatu begins to assess the full scale of the damage. The focus will be on helping survivors, restoring communication networks, and rebuilding homes and infrastructure. The international community has pledged its support, but the road to recovery will be extended.

For now, the people of Port Vila are trying to stay safe as aftershocks continue to shake the ground. The resilience of Vanuatu’s people will be tested once again. But as many residents have said, they are determined to rebuild their lives and communities.