M4.3 Earthquake 63 km SSW of Sola, Vanuatu — December 16, 2024
2024-12-16 21:36:17 UTC (2024-12-16) · approx. 8:36 AM UTC+11 local
On December 16, 2024 at 21:36 UTC, a magnitude 4.3 intermediate depth earthquake struck 63 km SSW of Sola, Vanuatu, at a depth of 164.4 km and coordinates -14.3951°, 167.2961°.
Physical scale: An earthquake of magnitude 4.3 releases seismic energy equivalent to roughly 43 metric tons of TNT. Empirical fault-scaling laws (Wells & Coppersmith, 1994) estimate the subsurface rupture length at approximately 558 m — a useful intuition for the size of the slip patch on the fault.
This earthquake is part of an ongoing aftershock sequence following the magnitude 5.1 mainshock that occurred 24 days ago 59 km NNE of Port-Olry, Vanuatu. Since the mainshock, the USGS has recorded 1 aftershocks in this area. Aftershock activity is expected to continue for days to weeks as stresses on surrounding faults redistribute.
Earthquake Details
167.2961°E
Technical Information
Common Questions
How strong was the magnitude 4.3 earthquake near Sola, Vanuatu?
The magnitude 4.3 earthquake that struck 63 km SSW of Sola, Vanuatu on December 16, 2024 at 21:36 UTC had a depth of 164.4 km. For context, this was a light earthquake commonly felt near the epicenter.
Were there aftershocks?
Aftershock activity is monitored continuously by the USGS. Aftershock sequences from magnitude 4.3 earthquakes can continue for several days and gradually diminish over time.
Is this the same earthquake as the M5.1 one earlier?
No. This magnitude 4.3 earthquake is an aftershock of the larger magnitude 5.1 mainshock that occurred earlier 59 km NNE of Port-Olry, Vanuatu. Aftershocks are smaller earthquakes triggered by stress changes from the mainshock.
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Understanding This Data
Magnitude 4.3 earthquakes are often felt but rarely cause damage.
Authoritative source: USGS event page (event ID: us6000ph97). All scientific values on this page are sourced verbatim from the USGS feed.
Cite this page: EarthquakeTracker.org. (2024, December 16, 2024). M4.3 Earthquake 63 km SSW of Sola, Vanuatu — December 16, 2024. Retrieved February 27, 2025 from https://www.earthquaketracker.org/earthquakes/event/us6000ph97/