M 5.6 - 54 km NW of Isangel, Vanuatu

May 30, 2002 at 14:41:40 UTC

Depth: 157.50 km (Intermediate)

Key Takeaway

This moderate earthquake (M5.6) occurred 23 years ago near 54 km NW of Isangel, Vanuatu, at a depth of 157.50 km (intermediate).

M 5.6

Moderate

N/A

PAGER Alert

No

Tsunami

N/A

Felt Reports

Event Details

Magnitude5.6 mwb
Depth157.50 km (Intermediate)
Location-19.1360S, 168.9950E
Tsunami WarningNo
Significance482 / 3000
StatusReviewed
Networkus
USGS Event PageView on USGS →

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the magnitude of this earthquake?

This earthquake had a magnitude of 5.6, classified as "Moderate". Moderate earthquakes can cause damage to poorly constructed buildings.

How deep was this earthquake?

This earthquake occurred at a depth of 157.50 km, classified as "Intermediate". Intermediate-depth earthquakes are felt over a wider area but typically cause less surface damage than shallow events of the same magnitude.

Where exactly did this earthquake occur?

This earthquake occurred near 54 km NW of Isangel, Vanuatu, at coordinates -19.1360S, 168.9950E. The location is determined by analyzing seismic wave arrival times at multiple monitoring stations.

Were there aftershocks associated with this event?

Aftershock data for this specific event can be explored by viewing nearby recent earthquakes listed below on this page. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes that occur in the same area following a larger event, and they can continue for days, weeks, or even months depending on the original earthquake's magnitude.

What does the magnitude of this earthquake mean in practical terms?

A magnitude 5.6 earthquake is classified as "Moderate" — these are widely felt and can cause damage to vulnerable structures, though well-built buildings typically withstand them.

Nearby Recent Earthquakes

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Data from the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program (ComCat). QuakeScan is not affiliated with the USGS. Event details may be updated as new data becomes available.