Magnitude 7.3 earthquake strikes Pacific nation of Vanuatu; multiple deaths reported
The area where the earthquake hit is one of the most seismically active in the world, according to USGS.
Six people are reportedly dead, and buildings and cars are damaged after a magnitude 7.3 earthquake hit the capital of Vanuatu, a country west of Fiji.
On Tuesday, the earthquake struck less than 20 miles west of Port Vila, Vanuatu's capital, according to the United States Geological Survey.
The United Nations, UN, reported six unconfirmed deaths, according to Reuters.
Video from local broadcasters shows buildings collapsing and vehicles being crushed. Debris is also strewn across the highway. Two main water reservoirs were also reportedly damaged, Reuters reported.
The earthquake occurred in one of "the world’s most seismically active" areas, according to USGS. At least 24 earthquakes of magnitude 7 or larger have occurred within 155 miles of the most recent earthquake in the past century, the largest being a 7.9 magnitude earthquake around 53 miles southwest in December 1950.
Where is Vanuatu?
Hospitals place tents outside to treat influx of patients
A local hospital in Port Vila was also affected by the earthquake, according to Reuters. Triage tents were set up outside to manage the influx of patients.
See photos of the damage caused by the earthquake below:
Contributing: Reuters
Julia is a trending reporter for Paste BN. You can connect with her on LinkedIn, follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram and TikTok: @juliamariegz, or email her at jgomez@gannett.com