A Strong Earthquake Hits Near Vanuatu This Afternoon.

US Geological Survey has confirmed a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.3 struck near Vanuatu this afternoon.

The tremor occurred at 2.47 PM, 30 Kilometres west of Port Villa, at a depth of 43 Kilometres. A 5.5 Magnitude aftershock struck the area six minutes after the original earthquake.

According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and GNS Science, despite the high level of seismic activity, there is no tsunami threat to New Zealand.

An initial assessment concluded that the earthquake is unlikely to generate a tsunami that would pose a risk to the country.

Civil Defense Minister, Mark Mitchell has assured the public that New Zealand authorities are monitoring on the situation and are prepared to provide assistance if necessary.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) is also monitoring the changing situation in Vanuatu.

There are currently 37 New Zealanders listed as visitors to the nation on SafeTravel.

MFAT has also advised Kiwis in Vanuatu to follow local authorities’ advice and stay informed of the safety precaution