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Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands – Earthquake/Tsunami – ECHO Daily Map | 09/12/2016

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SITUATION

• An earthquake of magnitude 7.8 Mw at a depth of 41 km occurred off the southwestern coast of Makira island (Solomon Islands), on 8 December at 17.38 UTC. The epicentre was located approx. 69 km west-southwest of Kirakira city (Mkira-Ulawa province). USGS PAGER estimated a shaking up to "Very Strong" for 6 000 people.

• Following the earthquake a Tsunami alert was issued but later lifted by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. The sea level measurements indicate that a small Tsunami was generated. JRC estimations indicate a maximum wave height of about 1.8 - 2.0 m. The event resulted in an initial Red Alert in GDACS, then changed into Orange when the estimated magnitude was reduced.

• Several aftershocks have been recorded in the area, with a maximum magnitude of 6.5 Mw at a depth of 15 km, which caused a second Tsunami warning to be launched.

• Initial reports received from the provinces indicated 3 712 people have been affected, as well as 47 homes partially or fully damaged in the islands of Malaita and San Cristobal. According to the Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Disaster Management & Meteorology, more reports of damages are expected given the isolation and lack of communication with communities along Makira Island’s west coast. National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) is on full activation to support Provincial Emergency Operations Centers.

• DG ECHO is monitoring the situation and is in contact with EU Delegation in Honiara and humanitarian partners in the area.