Strong 7.3 magnitude earthquake hits Vanuatu

The United States Embassy, the British High Commission, the French Embassy and the New Zealand High Commission were among damaged buildings housed in the same complex.

US officials said the building sustained "considerable damage" and would be closed until further notice. All staff in the building had safely evacuated, they added.

Separately, several Australian airlines have also cancelled flights into Port Vila, citing damage at the airport.

Australian carrier Jetstar, subsidiary of Qantas, cancelled a flight scheduled for Wednesday morning from Sydney to Port Vila, citing "earthquake activity in Vanuatu and reports of possible damage to Port Vila airport infrastructure".

The United States Geological Survey reported at least four aftershocks around Port Vila - with magnitudes ranging from 4.7 to 5.5 - in the two hours after the first earthquake. The first quake hit at a depth of 10km (6.2mi).

Authorities in neighbouring New Zealand and Australia said there was no tsunami threat for their countries.

Australia also said it "stands ready to support Vanuatu as the extent of the damage is assessed".

"Vanuatu is family and we will always be there in times of need," Foreign Minister Penny Wong wrote on X.

New Zealand said it is "deeply concerned" and was monitoring the situation. "Our thoughts are with the people and authorities of Vanuatu," said Foreign Minister Winston Peters.

Are you in Vanuatu? If it is safe to do so, please get in touch.