Situation Report #01 | Vanuatu: 7.3M Earthquake, 30 March 2026

In summary:

According to NEOC SitRep 01, there are no large-scale humanitarian crises that have been identified; specific cluster needs are emerging, particularly related to water, safety inspections, education, and public reassurance for the Province of Sanma, which is currently being coordinated at the Provincial Level EOC but is also monitored at the National Level EOC.

• A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck off the northern coast of Sanma on the evening of 30 March, 2026.
• The quake occurred at 7:44 pm local time at a depth of approximately 122 km, according to the Geohazard report.
• USGS intensity maps indicate shaking intensities between Vl and Vll on the eastern side of Santo (Aore, Malo) and between V and Vl on Malampa, Penama, and the rest of Santo Island.
• Landslides and rockfalls have been reported in North East Malekuka.
• No tsunami threat was issued, and an unusually low tide was observed along the east coast of Santo
  near Luganville.
• People were advised to stay away from coastal areas as a precautionary measure in Malampa, Penama, Sanma, and Torba.