M 5.1 - 220 km NE of Sola, Vanuatu
220 km NE of Sola, Vanuatu
1 day ago • Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 11:56 PM
Event Details
Latitude
-12.7320°
Longitude
169.2141°
Depth
642.16km
Status
reviewed
Event Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 5.1 earthquake is classified as moderate. Can cause damage to poorly constructed buildings. Felt widely in the affected area.
Depth: 642.2 km — This is a deep earthquake. Deep quakes are generally less damaging at the surface.
What Does Magnitude 5.1 Mean?
Every whole number increase in magnitude represents a 10× increase in wave amplitude and ~31.6× increase in energy released.
Why Did This Earthquake Happen?
Earthquakes occur when stress built up along tectonic plate boundaries or faults is suddenly released. The Vanuatu region sits near active geological boundaries where plates are constantly moving, colliding, or sliding past each other.
At a depth of 642.2 km, this seismic event originated deep within the Earth's mantle. The energy released traveled outward as seismic waves, causing the shaking felt at the surface.
Learn more about how earthquakes work →Earthquake Safety: What Should You Do?
During the Shaking
- • Drop, Cover, and Hold On
- • Get under a sturdy table or desk
- • Stay away from windows and heavy objects
- • If outdoors, move to an open area
After the Shaking
- • Check for injuries and damage
- • Be prepared for aftershocks
- • Avoid damaged buildings
- • Listen to emergency broadcasts
Be Prepared
- • Keep an emergency kit ready
- • Know your evacuation routes
- • Secure heavy furniture to walls
- • Practice earthquake drills
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