Fiji was placed under a tsunami watch following a magnitude 7.3 earthquake that struck Vanuatu yesterday afternoon. The quake occurred at a depth of 46 kilometers, approximately 14 kilometers northwest of Port Vila. The Fiji Mineral Resources Department’s seismology section issued an update indicating that hazardous tsunami waves were predicted.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued the tsunami watch through the US Tsunami Warning System, forecasting that tsunami waves would be less than 0.3 meters for the coasts of Fiji, as well as several other Pacific Islands including Kermadec Islands, Kiribati, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, and Wallis and Futuna. Local government agencies have been urged to assess risks according to established procedures.
In light of the situation, the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) has advised the public to remain vigilant and to avoid unnecessary travel to coastal areas until further notice. Fortunately, the tsunami watch was later cancelled.
Additionally, in a related update, Fiji’s seismology department reported that 20 earthquakes had been recorded in the Northern Division over the past 24 hours. Given Fiji’s position along the Pacific Ring of Fire, it is situated between two significant subduction zones, which contributes to the high seismic activity in the region. Fracture zones like the Fiji Fracture Zone and local faults increase the likelihood of both frequent and sometimes severe earthquakes.
In summary, while the recent earthquake and subsequent tsunami watch raised concerns, the swift action by authorities and the cancellation of the watch demonstrate effective disaster management protocols in place. This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness in seismic-prone regions. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and ready to respond to such events in the future, highlighting the resilience of Pacific Island nations.
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