Ontario, 24 October (H.S.):

A powerful earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale struck near the Vanuatu archipelago in the South Pacific early Saturday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake occurred at a depth of approximately 10 kilometres, making it a shallow seismic event.

According to the USGS, the epicentre was located around 197 kilometres west-northwest of Port Olry, Vanuatu. The earthquake's shallow depth raised concerns about its potential impact on nearby areas.

The USGS also recorded another earthquake measuring 6.3 in magnitude, with its epicentre approximately 170 kilometres northwest of Port Olry. The second earthquake occurred at a depth of around 10 kilometres and was part of the subsequent seismic activity in the region.

The USGS issued a Green Alert for the second earthquake under its assessment system for earthquake-related fatalities and economic losses. Such an alert indicates a low likelihood of casualties and damage, although it does not establish that the tremors were necessarily weak in areas close to the epicentre.

The powerful earthquake was followed by several aftershocks, including the magnitude 6.3 tremor, according to seismic monitoring data. The sequence prompted close monitoring of the region for potential hazards.

There were no immediate reports of significant damage or casualties following the earthquake, according to initial reports. Assessments of the potential impact were continuing.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar