Fiji was placed on a tsunami watch following a significant 7.3 magnitude earthquake that occurred near Vanuatu yesterday afternoon. The quake, which struck at a depth of 46 kilometers, was centered approximately 14 kilometers northwest of Port Vila.
In response to the seismic activity, Fiji’s Mineral Resources Department (MRD) released an update indicating that there was a potential for hazardous tsunami waves. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also issued a tsunami watch through its US Tsunami Warning System, cautioning that tsunami waves along the coasts of Fiji and other Pacific nations, including Kermadec Islands, Kiribati, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, and Wallis and Futuna, were expected to be less than 0.3 meters high.
Authorities urged government agencies to evaluate the risk levels based on their emergency protocols. The National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) advised the public to remain alert and to avoid unnecessary travel to coastal areas pending further instructions.
Fortunately, the tsunami watch was later lifted. In addition, it was noted that Fiji’s seismology department had recorded 20 earthquakes in the Northern Division within a single day. The MRD explained that Fiji’s location on the Pacific Ring of Fire exposes it to significant seismic activity due to its positioning between two major subduction zones — the Tonga Trench to the east and the New Hebrides Trench to the west. This also includes various major fracture zones and local faults, contributing to the region’s propensity for frequent and sometimes powerful earthquakes.
This event underscores the importance of preparedness in Pacific Island nations, demonstrating how quickly authorities can respond to natural disasters. The swift action taken by both seismology and disaster management agencies helped ensure the safety of residents and tourists alike, reinforcing awareness of the natural risks in this seismically active region.
In summary, although the earthquake was significant, the rapid communication and response from authorities reflect a strong infrastructure for disaster risk management, which could serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.
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