Massive 7.3 Earthquake Hits Vanuatu, Buildings Crumble

 Powerful 7.3 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Vanuatu, Causing Widespread Devastation

A massive 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, early Tuesday, causing extensive damage to buildings, triggering landslides, and crushing vehicles. Among the damaged structures was a complex housing multiple Western embassies.

Infrastructure and Communication Severely Affected

The earthquake struck at 12:47 local time (01:47 GMT), cutting off power and mobile networks across the region. The full extent of the devastation remains unclear, but reports suggest widespread destruction and a growing death toll. Early reports indicate at least one confirmed fatality, while several others sustained serious injuries.

Eyewitness Accounts

Dan McGarry, a journalist based in Port Vila, described the quake as the most powerful he’s experienced in over two decades. "Emergency services are stretched thin, and the limited resources in Vanuatu make rescue efforts particularly challenging," he told the BBC.

Michael Thompson, director of a local adventure company, described scenes of chaos with bodies visible in the streets and ongoing rescue operations to save trapped victims. His wife, Amanda, shared her harrowing experience: "We often have earthquakes here, but this was different. Our house is heavily damaged with giant cracks and shattered doors. Each aftershock sends us running to safety."

Impact on Embassies and Businesses

The United States Embassy, British High Commission, French Embassy, and New Zealand High Commission were all housed in a complex that sustained severe damage. US officials confirmed that all staff evacuated safely, but the building will remain closed indefinitely.

Flight Disruptions and Aftershocks

Australian airline Jetstar canceled a scheduled flight from Sydney to Port Vila due to potential damage to the airport infrastructure. Meanwhile, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded at least four significant aftershocks, ranging from 4.7 to 5.5 magnitudes, within two hours of the main quake.

International Support and Resilience

Authorities in Australia and New Zealand confirmed no tsunami threats to their territories. Australia expressed readiness to assist Vanuatu, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong affirming the strong bond between the nations: "Vanuatu is family, and we will always be there in times of need."

New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters also extended support, stating: "Our thoughts are with the people and authorities of Vanuatu."

A Nation Built on Resilience

Vanuatu, a South Pacific archipelago of 80 islands, sits in a seismically active region and frequently experiences earthquakes and natural disasters. Despite the destruction, locals like McGarry remain optimistic: "Natural disasters are part of life here. We’ll get through this, though not without challenges."

As rescue operations continue, the nation braces for further aftershocks and begins assessing the monumental task of rebuilding.