M6.3 Earthquake Strikes Vanuatu

Port-Olry, Vanuatu —

What happened:

A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck the ocean waters off northern Vanuatu on Friday evening, October 23. The U.S. Geological Survey puts the epicenter about 170 kilometers northwest of Port-Olry, with the quake firing from a shallow depth of just 10 kilometers at 9:35 PM Central Time. A shallow quake like this one lets its energy reach the surface with little to lose, which is why even offshore events can jolt nearby islands.

Impacts:

The USGS rates the estimated shaking near the epicenter at intensity IV — light shaking that rattles windows and dishes but typically causes little damage. No felt reports have been filed with the USGS so far, and no tsunami was generated by the quake. The USGS PAGER system issued a green alert, the lowest level, meaning the risk of casualties or significant damage is low. No damage reports have come in as of publication.

What to do:

- If you feel shaking, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table, and hold on until it stops.

- Stay away from windows, mirrors, and anything that can fall.

- After the shaking, check for gas leaks, damaged wiring, and cracked walls before turning utilities back on.

- Expect aftershocks — smaller quakes can follow for hours or days after a quake this size.

- Follow instructions from local emergency officials if any are issued.

*Source: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), October 23, 2026.*