By The South Asia Times

Port Vila, Vanuatu — A powerful earthquake  of magnitude 7.3 struck the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu on Tuesday , sending shockwaves across the region and sparking fears of a tsunami.

The earthquake, recorded at a magnitude of 7.3 , had its epicenter located approximately struck 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) west of Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila. Four other earthquakes of magnitude 5.4, 5, 5.5 and 5.1 followed., according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

Residents in coastal areas rushed to higher ground as authorities issued a tsunami alert . The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially cautioned nearby islands of potential hazardous waves, though the alert was later lifted. Local authorities are now assessing the damage, with reports of buildings shaking violently in Port Vila and neighboring islands.

Prime Minister addressed the nation, urging calm while emergency teams conduct assessments. “Our immediate focus is on ensuring the safety of our citizens and assessing any potential damage,” he said.

Vanuatu, located on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," experiences frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. The country is also highly vulnerable to natural disasters, with communities often facing challenges in disaster preparedness and recovery.

As of now, there are at least six people killed and dozen injured as residents have been warned to remain cautious due to the likelihood of aftershocks. Aid organizations, including the Red Cross, have mobilized to assist with any humanitarian needs that may arise.

Red Cross regional head Katie Greenwood also confirmed killing of six people and many other injured.

 "What we know so far after the 7.4 magnitude earthquake in #Vanuatu. Buildings have collapsed and there are 6 confirmed fatalities and many injured. Very sad news of a floor collapsing in a shared embassy building," she said on X.

"The hospital infrastructure is damaged, and the building itself is compromised. Lots of damage to homes and infrastructure- including water reserves. The humanitarian system has sprung into action - ready to be guided by the Government of Vanuatu. We had initial contact with our team on the ground before comms went down and they were reporting widespread damage including some damage to their building They have very good supplies of humanitarian relief items pre positioned around the capital and the country, and we know they will be responding already. Our hearts are with our friends and family in Vanuatu at this distressing time and we will be working closely with them," she added.