Shallow M5.8 earthquake hits offshore Vanuatu

A shallow earthquake measured at M5.8 was recorded at 05:23 UTC on October 24, 2026, about 182 km (113 miles) northwest of Port-Olry, Vanuatu. According to USGS data, the quake occurred at a depth of 10.0 km (6.2 miles).

The coordinates for the event were 165.7°E, 14.1°S, positioning the epicenter offshore northwest of the Vanuatu archipelago. This part of the South Pacific is known for its proximity to active tectonic margins and frequent seismicity.

The offshore setting suggests proximity to oceanic transport routes and possible impacts to nearby maritime activities, with limited direct risk to onshore critical infrastructure due to the distance from populated areas.

There is no tsunami threat associated with this earthquake, based on its location and available data.

USGS issued a green alert for this event, indicating a low likelihood of casualties or damage. The estimated maximum intensity reached IV, and the significance index is 518 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.

Vanuatu is situated along the boundary of the Australian and Pacific Plates, making it highly susceptible to seismic events due to subduction processes and associated tectonic activity.

This information was last updated at 05:48 UTC on October 24, 2026.