The magnitude 7, 3 magnitude earthquake in the island nation of Vanuatu

A 7.3-magnitude earthquake has just occurred in the waters of the island nation of Vanuatu, off the Pacific Ocean, without a tsunami warning.

Vanuatu island nation struck a 7.3-magnitude earthquake

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said a 7.3-magnitude earthquake occurred in the waters of the island nation of Vanuatu, off the Pacific Ocean today October 21, however, there has been no warning. tsunami.

The location of the 7.3-magnitude earthquake in Vanuatu - (Photo: Stuff).

According to AFP, the earthquake occurred at a depth of 131km, 335km from the capital Port Vila.

"According to the data available, there is no forecast that tsunamis will occur," the US Geological Survey said.

Vanuatu is part of the 'Ring of Fire' , an area where tectonic activity occurs in the Pacific Ocean. This is the place where earthquakes and tsunamis often occur.

According to the Australian Geological Research Agency, strong magnitude 6.5 earthquakes at a depth of 100km are capable of creating tsunamis.

At the end of January 2015, the South Pacific island shook because of a 6.8-magnitude earthquake. Another strong 6.5-magnitude earthquake occurred in February 2015. However there are no reports of damage.