5.7 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off Vanuatu Coast, No Tsunami Threat

Vanuatu Jolted by Moderate Earthquake

The Vanuatu Islands experienced a magnitude 5.7 earthquake on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at approximately 09:36 AM local time (Efate Time). The seismic event, initially reported with varying magnitudes by different agencies, was confirmed by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) and the GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences. The tremor occurred at 22:36 GMT on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, corresponding to the local morning in Vanuatu.

Epicenter and Depth Details

The earthquake's epicenter was located in the Coral Sea, approximately 12 kilometers north of Pentecost Island in Penama Province, Vanuatu. Other reports placed it about 97 km east of Luganville, Sanma Province, and 233 km northwest of the capital, Port Vila. The coordinates were pinpointed at 15.68 degrees south latitude and 168.06 degrees east longitude. The hypocenter was determined to be at a depth of 35 kilometers, though some initial reports indicated a shallower depth of 10 km before revisions.

Impact and Lack of Tsunami Threat

Despite its moderate strength, the earthquake is not expected to have caused significant damage. Preliminary assessments suggest the economic impact will be minimal, rated as 'Level GREEN'. Authorities have received no reports of casualties or major structural damage. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimated that the quake might have been felt by over 170,000 people across Vanuatu. Approximately 46,700 individuals were in areas experiencing 'Light shaking' (intensity IV), while about 3,460 people may have felt 'Moderate shaking' (intensity V) on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale.

Residents in towns such as Norsup (population 3,000), Lakatoro (population 710), and Luganville (population 13,400) likely experienced light shaking. Weaker tremors were probably felt in Port-Olry (population 2,000) and Port Vila (population 35,900). Crucially, no tsunami warning was issued following the event, alleviating concerns for coastal communities.

Regional Seismic Activity

Vanuatu lies within the seismically active 'Ring of Fire,' making earthquakes a common occurrence in the region. This 5.7 magnitude event is part of the ongoing tectonic activity in the Pacific. Seismological agencies continue to monitor the area for any aftershocks or further developments.