A powerful underwater earthquake struck the South Pacific on Monday. Geologists initially reported a magnitude of 7.3, a figure that is often adjusted after further analysis. The quake occurred at 19:44 local time (10:44 CET), just a few kilometres off the east coast of Espiritu Santo, the largest island in Vanuatu. At this stage there have been no reports of damage or casualties, and it is uncertain whether a tsunami may develop.
Worldwide, about 18 earthquakes of this magnitude happen each year, and they can frequently cause significant damage.
