Note: The map shows an area with an earthquake intensity of 4 or higher, which the USGS defines as “light,” or earthquakes may be felt outside of the areas shown. The New York Times
A large, 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck the Coral Sea on Tuesday, according to the United States Geological Survey.
The earthquake triggered a tsunami warning for parts of Vanuatu, according to the US Tsunami Warning System, part of the National Weather Service. As of 2:14 pm local time, US officials said the threat had passed.
The earthquake occurred at 12:47 pm Vanuatu time about 19 miles west of Port-Vila, Vanuatu, data from the agency shows.
USGS data previously reported the magnitude was 7.4.
As seismologists review available information, they may revise the reported magnitude of the earthquake. More information gathered about the earthquake may prompt USGS scientists to update the earthquake magnitude map.
After the earthquake in the region
Aftershocks are usually smaller earthquakes that follow a larger one in the same area. Aftershocks are usually minor corrections to the part of the fault that slipped during the initial earthquake.
Shaking and shaking after 100 miles
Aftershocks can occur days, weeks or even years after the first earthquake. These events can be of equal or greater magnitude to the first earthquake, and can continue to affect areas that have already been damaged.
Source: United States Geological Survey | Notes: Movement categories are based on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. When earthquake data is available, the accompanying maps and charts include earthquakes within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. All times above are Vanuatu time. Shake data is Monday, December 16 at 9:01 pm Eastern. Aftershocks data is Monday, December 16 at 10:32 pm Eastern.
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