By Bhaskar Prasad: Subscribe to Bhaskar's RSS feed
February 2, 2012 11:17 PM EST
A powerful earthquake struck the Pacific Ocean near the island nation of Vanuatu on Thursday, seismologists said, but there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.
The quake measured a magnitude of 7.1 on the Richter scale. The quake, which hit at 13:34 GMT, was at a shallow 10 kilometers depth said the United States Geological Survey. It was centered 122 kilometers west of Port-Vila, the capital of Vanuatu. Based on historical data, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said that there was no threat of a widespread destructive tsunami.
Vanuatu is on the so-called "Pacific Ring of Fire," an arc of fault lines circling the Pacific Basin that is prone to frequent and large earthquakes. In August 2011, two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.1 and 7.4 on the Richter scale struck about 63 kilometers south-southwest of Port-Vila.
To report problems or to leave feedback about this article, e-mail:
To contact the editor, e-mail:
The Most Dangerous US States to Drive In 2012 [SLIDESHOW]
After Greece Exits The Euro, What's Next? An Illustrated Guide To 5 Possible Scenarios
Spain's Bankia Suspends Shares On Bailout Rumors
Searching For The American Dream, In A Chinese RV
After 24 Years In Myanmar, New Doors Open For Aung San Suu KyiWe value your privacy. Your email address will not be shared.
