6.0-Magnitude Earthquake Rocks Coral Sea
Seismically active region north of Vanuatu experiences shallow quake, authorities continue monitoring while past tremors highlight regional risks.
Coral Sea, Oct 26: A strong earthquake of magnitude 6.0 struck the Coral Sea in the early hours of Sunday, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS).
In a post on X, the NCS reported: “EQ of M: 6.0, On: 26/10/2025 04:58:07 IST, Lat: 12.34 S, Long: 166.46 E, Depth: 10 Km, Location: Coral Sea.” The epicenter was located approximately 632 km north-northwest of Port Vila, Vanuatu.
As of now, there are no immediate reports of casualties or structural damage, and authorities are actively monitoring the situation. Experts note that shallow earthquakes, like this one at a depth of 10 km, can produce stronger ground shaking and pose higher risks compared to deeper quakes.
The Coral Sea region, including the Solomon and Vanuatu Islands, lies along a seismically active subduction zone where the Indo-Australian Plate dives beneath the Pacific Plate. Movements along this plate boundary, combined with complex tectonic microplates in the area, result in frequent large earthquakes. The Australian continent is moving northeast at an average rate of 6 cm per year, with variations up to 13 cm/year along plate boundaries.
The region has a history of destructive quakes. In December 2024, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck Port Vila, claiming 14 lives, destroying infrastructure, and displacing over 2,000 people. In response, organizations including WHO and UNICEF, in coordination with Vanuatu’s Ministry of Health, provided life saving information through radio broadcasts, posters, and community outreach, ensuring access even for those without internet connectivity.
Authorities continue to issue alerts and monitor aftershocks, urging residents in the region to stay vigilant due to the potential hazards associated with shallow seismic activity.
