Fiji was placed under a tsunami watch following a magnitude 7.3 earthquake that occurred near Vanuatu yesterday afternoon. The earthquake struck at a depth of 46 kilometers and was located approximately 14 kilometers northwest of Port Vila.
The seismology department at Fiji’s Mineral Resources Department (MRD) issued an update warning that hazardous tsunami waves were anticipated based on the available data. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also announced a tsunami watch through its US Tsunami Warning System, indicating that tsunami waves were expected to measure less than 0.3 meters along the coasts of several Pacific nations, including Fiji, the Kermadec Islands, Kiribati, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, and Wallis and Futuna.
In light of the situation, government agencies were advised to evaluate any potential risks according to their own procedures. The National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) urged the public to remain cautious and to refrain from unnecessary travel to coastal regions until further notice. Fortunately, the tsunami watch was later lifted.
In a related note, Fiji’s seismology department confirmed that 20 earthquakes had been recorded in the Northern Division within the previous 24 hours. According to the MRD, Fiji is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area susceptible to seismic activity due to its proximity to major subduction zones—the Tonga Trench to the east and the New Hebrides Trench to the west. Factors such as the Fiji Fracture Zone, Hunter Fracture Zone, and local faults like the Naqara and Suva Canyon faults contribute to the frequency and intensity of earthquakes in the region.
The community response to the earthquake and subsequent tsunami watch demonstrates the importance of preparedness and vigilance in disaster-prone areas. Residents are reminded of the need to stay informed and follow safety guidelines, which can ultimately help ensure their safety in unpredictable situations.
Summary: Following a strong earthquake near Vanuatu, Fiji was briefly placed under a tsunami watch. While the threat was later canceled, the incident serves as a reminder of the area’s seismic activity and the need for preparedness in response to natural disasters.
Leave a comment