A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake strikes the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, leaving significant damage, including to the U.S. Embassy in the capital, Port Vila. The quake hits early Tuesday, shaking homes, businesses, and infrastructure, causing widespread panic, communication disruptions, and at least one confirmed fatality, according to local officials.
The U.S. Embassy in Papua New Guinea reports that all personnel at the Vanuatu Embassy safely evacuate following the tremors. Images and reports emerging from Port Vila depict damaged buildings, cracked roads, and residents assessing the aftermath as aftershocks continue to ripple through the area. Emergency response. . .