At least 14 people have been killed and hundreds more injured after a major earthquake struck Vanuatu on Tuesday. Watch this report for more details!

Vanuatu Earthquake Death Toll Reaches At Least 14

Port Vila, Vanuatu 
Rescue teams dug for survivors trapped in crumpled buildings in the Pacific nation of Vanuatu on Wednesday after a powerful earthquake killed at least nine people, burying some in rubble and landslides.
People called out from beneath the remains of a flattened three-storey shop in the capital Port Vila, where scores of rescuers worked through the night to find them, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone. 
"We got three people out that were trapped. Unfortunately, one of them did not make it," he said.
About 80 people including police, medics, trained rescuers and volunteers used excavators, jackhammers, grinders and concrete saws, "just everything we can get our hands on".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vanuatu-earthquake-embassies-of-us-uk-are-among-damaged-buildings-784720">Vanuatu earthquake: Embassies of US, UK among damaged buildings</a>
When rescuers on the site went quiet, they could hear three people within signalling they were alive on Wednesday, Thompson said.
"There's tonnes and tonnes of rubble on top of them. And two rather significant concrete beams that have pancaked down," he said. "Obviously they are lucky to be in a bit of a void."
AFP photos showed rescuers using heavy machinery to claw away rubble from the squashed concrete remains of a building, dust clouding the air.
The 7.3-magnitude quake struck off Vanuatu's main island at 12:47 pm local time (0147 GMT) on Tuesday.
<h2>State of emergency </h2>
It flattened large buildings, cracked walls, shattered windows and set off landslides in the low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people, which lies in the quake-prone Pacific Rim of Fire.
A string of aftershocks has since shaken the Pacific island nation.
Vanuatu declared a seven-day state of emergency "due to the severe impacts", along with a curfew from 6 pm-6 am.
Australia and New Zealand flew in medical and search-and-rescue personnel on military transport aircraft -- including a 64-person Australian team with two search dogs.
Nine people have been confirmed dead by Port Vila's hospital and that number is likely to rise, said an update by Vanuatu's disaster management office. 
The office had earlier said at least 14 people were killed. A government spokesperson was unable to immediately explain the change.
Two of the dead were Chinese citizens, the country's ambassador to Vanuatu told Chinese television.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sara-sharif-murder-sadist-father-and-stepmother-imprisoned-for-life-for-brutally-killing-her-784733">Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her</a>
The quake caused "major structural damage" in more than 10 buildings, including the main hospital, while also hitting three bridges and power lines, the disaster office's report said.
<h2>Water reserves destroyed </h2>
Two major water reserves supplying Port Vila had been "totally destroyed".
Mobile communications were "functional with intermittent disruptions", it said.
Port Vila's main wharf was closed "due to a major landslide".
The airport was "not operational" but could handle incoming humanitarian aid, the report said.
French engineers set up satellite communications at the airport and declared the runway operational, said the French ambassador Jean-Baptiste Jeangene Vilmer.
The ground floor of a four-storey concrete block in Port Vila -- used by the US, French, British, Australian and New Zealand diplomatic missions -- collapsed, AFP photos showed. 
US, French and Australian staff members who were inside are safe, the three countries have said.
Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said he had seen at least three bodies in the city.
'We could hear screams', he drove near the airport past a toppled four-storey block shortly after the quake. Its ground floor had collapsed under the upper storeys.
"When we slowed down with the windows down, we could hear screams coming from inside," he said. 
The quake crushed four large buildings in Port Vila and triggered landslides including one that covered a bus, Thompson said.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has estimated 116,000 people could be affected by the worst impacts of the quake.
"People are still hanging out in parks and some areas because they are afraid to go back home for fear of the aftershocks and more earthquakes," said Rebecca Olul, a local official with the UN children's charity UNICEF.
Concerns were mounting over access to fresh water and the challenge now would be ensuring people are safe while finding those who are missing, she told AFP.
Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The quake caused "major structural damage" in more than 10 buildings, including the main hospital, while also hitting three bridges and power lines.



Port Vila, Vanuatu Rescue teams dug for survivors trapped in crumpled buildings in the Pacific nation of Vanuatu on Wednesday after a powerful earthquake killed at least nine people, burying some in rubble and landslides. People called out from beneath the remains of a flattened three-storey shop in the capital Port Vila, where scores of rescuers worked through the night to find them, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone. "We got three people out that were trapped. Unfortunately, one of them did not make it," he said. About 80 people including police, medics, trained rescuers and volunteers used excavators, jackhammers, grinders and concrete saws, "just everything we can get our hands on". Also read | Vanuatu earthquake: Embassies of US, UK among damaged buildings When rescuers on the site went quiet, they could hear three people within signalling they were alive on Wednesday, Thompson said. "There's tonnes and tonnes of rubble on top of them. And two rather significant concrete beams that have pancaked down," he said. "Obviously they are lucky to be in a bit of a void." AFP photos showed rescuers using heavy machinery to claw away rubble from the squashed concrete remains of a building, dust clouding the air. The 7.3-magnitude quake struck off Vanuatu's main island at 12:47 pm local time (0147 GMT) on Tuesday. State of emergency It flattened large buildings, cracked walls, shattered windows and set off landslides in the low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people, which lies in the quake-prone Pacific Rim of Fire. A string of aftershocks has since shaken the Pacific island nation. Vanuatu declared a seven-day state of emergency "due to the severe impacts", along with a curfew from 6 pm-6 am. Australia and New Zealand flew in medical and search-and-rescue personnel on military transport aircraft -- including a 64-person Australian team with two search dogs. Nine people have been confirmed dead by Port Vila's hospital and that number is likely to rise, said an update by Vanuatu's disaster management office. The office had earlier said at least 14 people were killed. A government spokesperson was unable to immediately explain the change. Two of the dead were Chinese citizens, the country's ambassador to Vanuatu told Chinese television. Also read | Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her The quake caused "major structural damage" in more than 10 buildings, including the main hospital, while also hitting three bridges and power lines, the disaster office's report said. Water reserves destroyed Two major water reserves supplying Port Vila had been "totally destroyed". Mobile communications were "functional with intermittent disruptions", it said. Port Vila's main wharf was closed "due to a major landslide". The airport was "not operational" but could handle incoming humanitarian aid, the report said. French engineers set up satellite communications at the airport and declared the runway operational, said the French ambassador Jean-Baptiste Jeangene Vilmer. The ground floor of a four-storey concrete block in Port Vila -- used by the US, French, British, Australian and New Zealand diplomatic missions -- collapsed, AFP photos showed. US, French and Australian staff members who were inside are safe, the three countries have said. Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said he had seen at least three bodies in the city. 'We could hear screams', he drove near the airport past a toppled four-storey block shortly after the quake. Its ground floor had collapsed under the upper storeys. "When we slowed down with the windows down, we could hear screams coming from inside," he said. The quake crushed four large buildings in Port Vila and triggered landslides including one that covered a bus, Thompson said. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has estimated 116,000 people could be affected by the worst impacts of the quake. "People are still hanging out in parks and some areas because they are afraid to go back home for fear of the aftershocks and more earthquakes," said Rebecca Olul, a local official with the UN children's charity UNICEF. Concerns were mounting over access to fresh water and the challenge now would be ensuring people are safe while finding those who are missing, she told AFP. Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Rescue efforts intensify as Vanuatu battles aftermath of deadly earthquake

Rescue teams dug for survivors trapped in crumpled buildings in the Pacific nation of Vanuatu on Wednesday after a powerful earthquake killed at least nine people, burying some in rubble and landslides.

People called out from beneath the remains of a flattened three-storey shop in the capital Port Vila, where scores of rescuers worked through the night to find them, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone.&nbsp;

"We got three people out that were trapped. Unfortunately, one of them did not make it," he said.

About 80 people including police, medics, trained rescuers and volunteers used excavators, jackhammers, grinders and concrete saws, "just everything we can get our hands on".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vanuatu-earthquake-embassies-of-us-uk-are-among-damaged-buildings-784720">Vanuatu earthquake: Embassies of US, UK among damaged&nbsp;buildings</a>

When rescuers on the site went quiet, they could hear three people within signalling they were alive on Wednesday, Thompson said.

"There's tonnes and tonnes of rubble on top of them. And two rather significant concrete beams that have pancaked down," he said. "Obviously they are lucky to be in a bit of a void."

AFP photos showed rescuers using heavy machinery to claw away rubble from the squashed concrete remains of a building, dust clouding the air.

The 7.3-magnitude quake struck off Vanuatu's main island at 12:47 pm local time (0147 GMT) on Tuesday.

<h2>State of emergency&nbsp;</h2>

It flattened large buildings, cracked walls, shattered windows and set off landslides in the low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people, which lies in the quake-prone Pacific Rim of Fire.

A string of aftershocks has since shaken the Pacific island nation.

Vanuatu declared a seven-day state of emergency "due to the severe impacts", along with a curfew from 6 pm-6 am.

Australia and New Zealand flew in medical and search-and-rescue personnel on military transport aircraft -- including a 64-person Australian team with two search dogs.

Nine people have been confirmed dead by Port Vila's hospital and that number is likely to rise, said an update by Vanuatu's disaster management office.&nbsp;

The office had earlier said at least 14 people were killed. A government spokesperson was unable to immediately explain the change.

Two of the dead were Chinese citizens, the country's ambassador to Vanuatu told Chinese television.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sara-sharif-murder-sadist-father-and-stepmother-imprisoned-for-life-for-brutally-killing-her-784733">Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her</a>

The quake caused "major structural damage" in more than 10 buildings, including the main hospital, while also hitting three bridges and power lines, the disaster office's report said.

<h2>Water reserves destroyed&nbsp;</h2>

Two major water reserves supplying Port Vila had been "totally destroyed".

Mobile communications were "functional with intermittent disruptions", it said.

Port Vila's main wharf was closed "due to a major landslide".

The airport was "not operational" but could handle incoming humanitarian aid, the report said.

French engineers set up satellite communications at the airport and declared the runway operational, said the French ambassador Jean-Baptiste Jeangene Vilmer.

The ground floor of a four-storey concrete block in Port Vila -- used by the US, French, British, Australian and New Zealand diplomatic missions -- collapsed, AFP photos showed.&nbsp;

US, French and Australian staff members who were inside are safe, the three countries have said.

Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said he had seen at least three bodies in the city.

'We could hear screams', he drove near the airport past a toppled four-storey block shortly after the quake. Its ground floor had collapsed under the upper storeys.

"When we slowed down with the windows down, we could hear screams coming from inside," he said.&nbsp;

The quake crushed four large buildings in Port Vila and triggered landslides including one that covered a bus, Thompson said.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has estimated 116,000 people could be affected by the worst impacts of the quake.

"People are still hanging out in parks and some areas because they are afraid to go back home for fear of the aftershocks and more earthquakes," said Rebecca Olul, a local official with the UN children's charity UNICEF.

Concerns were mounting over access to fresh water and the challenge now would be ensuring people are safe while finding those who are missing, she told AFP.

Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Rescue teams dug for survivors trapped in crumpled buildings in the Pacific nation of Vanuatu on Wednesday after a powerful earthquake killed at least nine people, burying some in rubble and landslides.

Rescue teams dug for survivors trapped in crumpled buildings in the Pacific nation of Vanuatu on Wednesday after a powerful earthquake killed at least nine people, burying some in rubble and landslides. People called out from beneath the remains of a flattened three-storey shop in the capital Port Vila, where scores of rescuers worked through the night to find them, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone. "We got three people out that were trapped. Unfortunately, one of them did not make it," he said. About 80 people including police, medics, trained rescuers and volunteers used excavators, jackhammers, grinders and concrete saws, "just everything we can get our hands on". Also read | Vanuatu earthquake: Embassies of US, UK among damaged buildings When rescuers on the site went quiet, they could hear three people within signalling they were alive on Wednesday, Thompson said. "There's tonnes and tonnes of rubble on top of them. And two rather significant concrete beams that have pancaked down," he said. "Obviously they are lucky to be in a bit of a void." AFP photos showed rescuers using heavy machinery to claw away rubble from the squashed concrete remains of a building, dust clouding the air. The 7.3-magnitude quake struck off Vanuatu's main island at 12:47 pm local time (0147 GMT) on Tuesday. State of emergency It flattened large buildings, cracked walls, shattered windows and set off landslides in the low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people, which lies in the quake-prone Pacific Rim of Fire. A string of aftershocks has since shaken the Pacific island nation. Vanuatu declared a seven-day state of emergency "due to the severe impacts", along with a curfew from 6 pm-6 am. Australia and New Zealand flew in medical and search-and-rescue personnel on military transport aircraft -- including a 64-person Australian team with two search dogs. Nine people have been confirmed dead by Port Vila's hospital and that number is likely to rise, said an update by Vanuatu's disaster management office. The office had earlier said at least 14 people were killed. A government spokesperson was unable to immediately explain the change. Two of the dead were Chinese citizens, the country's ambassador to Vanuatu told Chinese television. Also read | Sara Sharif murder: 'Sadist' father and stepmother imprisoned for life for brutally killing her The quake caused "major structural damage" in more than 10 buildings, including the main hospital, while also hitting three bridges and power lines, the disaster office's report said. Water reserves destroyed Two major water reserves supplying Port Vila had been "totally destroyed". Mobile communications were "functional with intermittent disruptions", it said. Port Vila's main wharf was closed "due to a major landslide". The airport was "not operational" but could handle incoming humanitarian aid, the report said. French engineers set up satellite communications at the airport and declared the runway operational, said the French ambassador Jean-Baptiste Jeangene Vilmer. The ground floor of a four-storey concrete block in Port Vila -- used by the US, French, British, Australian and New Zealand diplomatic missions -- collapsed, AFP photos showed. US, French and Australian staff members who were inside are safe, the three countries have said. Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said he had seen at least three bodies in the city. 'We could hear screams', he drove near the airport past a toppled four-storey block shortly after the quake. Its ground floor had collapsed under the upper storeys. "When we slowed down with the windows down, we could hear screams coming from inside," he said. The quake crushed four large buildings in Port Vila and triggered landslides including one that covered a bus, Thompson said. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has estimated 116,000 people could be affected by the worst impacts of the quake. "People are still hanging out in parks and some areas because they are afraid to go back home for fear of the aftershocks and more earthquakes," said Rebecca Olul, a local official with the UN children's charity UNICEF. Concerns were mounting over access to fresh water and the challenge now would be ensuring people are safe while finding those who are missing, she told AFP. Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A powerful earthquake has hit the pacific nation of Vanuatu. It has brought down buildings in the capital Port Vila, including one used by foreign embassies. Authorities say at least one person has lost his life, while many are feared dead...Watch in for more details!



7.3 Magnitude Quake Leaves Vanuatu In Ruins |

Port Vila, Vanuatu
<meta charset="utf-8"/>A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake hit the coast of Vanuatu on Tuesday (Dec 17), causing widespread destruction and severe damage to buildings, including a complex housing several Western embassies, including the United States Embassy, British High Commission, French Embassy, and New Zealand High Commission.
The United States Embassy confirmed "considerable damage" and announced the building would remain closed until further notice, though all staff had safely evacuated.
The quake caused widespread destruction in Port Vila, triggered tsunami warnings, and left one person dead. Aftershocks ranging between 4.7 and 5.5 magnitudes continue to rattle the region.
<h2 dir="ltr">Embassies sustain major damage</h2>
The US Embassy in Papua New Guinea reassured in a statement on social media: “While the US Embassy building sustained significant damage, all personnel were able to safely evacuate the building.” 
Michael Thompson, a Vanuatu resident, described the devastation: “The bottom floor of the embassy block no longer exists. It is completely flat. The top three floors are still holding but have dropped.”
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bodies-found-amid-rubble-in-vanuatu-capital-after-powerful-73-magnitude-quake-784587">Bodies found amid rubble in Vanuatu capital after powerful 7.3 magnitude quake</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Neighbouring countries offer support</h2>
Authorities in Australia and New Zealand confirmed there is no tsunami threat for their nations and pledged support for Vanuatu. “Vanuatu is family, and we will always be there in times of need,” said Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Similarly, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed, “Our thoughts are with the people and authorities of Vanuatu,” while monitoring the situation closely.
<h2 dir="ltr">Aftershocks and ongoing damage</h2>
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported at least four aftershocks following the main quake, with magnitudes ranging from 4.7 to 5.5. Photos shared by AFP depict the collapsed ground floor of the embassy complex, emphasising the scale of destruction.
Authorities continue assessing the damage while aftershocks persist, further adding to the challenges faced by residents.
(With inputs from agencies)

The United States Embassy confirmed "considerable damage" and stated that the building would stay closed until further notice, but all staff had safely evacuated.



Port Vila, Vanuatu A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake hit the coast of Vanuatu on Tuesday (Dec 17), causing widespread destruction and severe damage to buildings, including a complex housing several Western embassies, including the United States Embassy, British High Commission, French Embassy, and New Zealand High Commission. The United States Embassy confirmed "considerable damage" and announced the building would remain closed until further notice, though all staff had safely evacuated. The quake caused widespread destruction in Port Vila, triggered tsunami warnings, and left one person dead. Aftershocks ranging between 4.7 and 5.5 magnitudes continue to rattle the region. Embassies sustain major damage The US Embassy in Papua New Guinea reassured in a statement on social media: “While the US Embassy building sustained significant damage, all personnel were able to safely evacuate the building.” Michael Thompson, a Vanuatu resident, described the devastation: “The bottom floor of the embassy block no longer exists. It is completely flat. The top three floors are still holding but have dropped.” Also Read: Bodies found amid rubble in Vanuatu capital after powerful 7.3 magnitude quake Neighbouring countries offer support Authorities in Australia and New Zealand confirmed there is no tsunami threat for their nations and pledged support for Vanuatu. “Vanuatu is family, and we will always be there in times of need,” said Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Similarly, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed, “Our thoughts are with the people and authorities of Vanuatu,” while monitoring the situation closely. Aftershocks and ongoing damage The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported at least four aftershocks following the main quake, with magnitudes ranging from 4.7 to 5.5. Photos shared by AFP depict the collapsed ground floor of the embassy complex, emphasising the scale of destruction. Authorities continue assessing the damage while aftershocks persist, further adding to the challenges faced by residents. (With inputs from agencies)

Vanuatu earthquake: Embassies of US, UK among damaged buildings

Port Vila, Vanuatu
A powerful earthquake hit the Pacific island of Vanuatu on Tuesday, smashing buildings in the capital Port Vila including one housing the US and other embassies, with a witness telling AFP of bodies seen in the city.
The 7.3-magnitude quake struck at a depth of 57 kilometres (35 miles), some 30 kilometres off the coast of Efate, Vanuatu's main island, at 12:47 pm (0147 GMT), according to the US Geological Survey.
The ground floor of a building housing the US, French and other embassies had been crushed under higher floors, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone after posting images of the destruction on social media.
"That no longer exists. It is just completely flat. The top three floors are still holding but they have dropped," Thompson said.
"If there was anyone in there at the time, then they're gone."
Thompson said the ground floor housed the US embassy. This could not be immediately confirmed.
The United States has closed the embassy until further notice, citing "considerable damage" to the mission, the US embassy in Papua New Guinea said in a message on social media.
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"Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this earthquake," the embassy said.
The New Zealand High Commission, housed in the same building, suffered "significant damage", a statement from Foreign Minister Winston Peters' office said.
"New Zealand is deeply concerned about the significant earthquake in Vanuatu, and the damage it has caused."
<h2>Roof collapsed on cars</h2>
Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said: "There's people in the buildings in town. There were bodies there when we walked past."
A landslide on one road had covered a bus, he said, "so there's obviously some deaths there".
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The quake also collapsed at least two bridges, and most mobile networks were cut off, Thompson said.
"They're just cracking on with a rescue operation. The support we need from overseas is medical evacuation and skilled rescue, kind of people that can operate in earthquakes," he said.
Video footage posted by Thompson and verified by AFP showed uniformed rescuers and emergency vehicles working on a building where an external roof had collapsed onto a number of parked cars and trucks.
The streets of the city were strewn with broken glass and other debris from damaged buildings, the footage showed.
Nibhay Nand, a Sydney-based pharmacist with businesses across the South Pacific, said he had spoken to staff in Port Vila who said most of the store there had been "destroyed" and that other buildings nearby had "collapsed".
"We are waiting for everyone to get online to know how devastating and traumatic this will be," Nand told AFP.
A tsunami warning was issued after the quake, with waves of up to one metre (three feet) forecast for some areas of Vanuatu, but it was soon lifted by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.
Earthquakes are common in Vanuatu, a low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people that straddles the seismic Ring of Fire, an arc of intense tectonic activity that stretches through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.
Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The 7.3-magnitude quake struck at a depth of 57 kilometres (35 miles), some 30 kilometres off the coast of Efate, Vanuatu's main island, at 12:47 pm (0147 GMT).



Port Vila, Vanuatu A powerful earthquake hit the Pacific island of Vanuatu on Tuesday, smashing buildings in the capital Port Vila including one housing the US and other embassies, with a witness telling AFP of bodies seen in the city. The 7.3-magnitude quake struck at a depth of 57 kilometres (35 miles), some 30 kilometres off the coast of Efate, Vanuatu's main island, at 12:47 pm (0147 GMT), according to the US Geological Survey. The ground floor of a building housing the US, French and other embassies had been crushed under higher floors, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone after posting images of the destruction on social media. "That no longer exists. It is just completely flat. The top three floors are still holding but they have dropped," Thompson said. "If there was anyone in there at the time, then they're gone." Thompson said the ground floor housed the US embassy. This could not be immediately confirmed. The United States has closed the embassy until further notice, citing "considerable damage" to the mission, the US embassy in Papua New Guinea said in a message on social media. Also read | Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call "Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this earthquake," the embassy said. The New Zealand High Commission, housed in the same building, suffered "significant damage", a statement from Foreign Minister Winston Peters' office said. "New Zealand is deeply concerned about the significant earthquake in Vanuatu, and the damage it has caused." Roof collapsed on cars Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said: "There's people in the buildings in town. There were bodies there when we walked past." A landslide on one road had covered a bus, he said, "so there's obviously some deaths there". Also read | Asian markets waver as investors await central bank rate decisions The quake also collapsed at least two bridges, and most mobile networks were cut off, Thompson said. "They're just cracking on with a rescue operation. The support we need from overseas is medical evacuation and skilled rescue, kind of people that can operate in earthquakes," he said. Video footage posted by Thompson and verified by AFP showed uniformed rescuers and emergency vehicles working on a building where an external roof had collapsed onto a number of parked cars and trucks. The streets of the city were strewn with broken glass and other debris from damaged buildings, the footage showed. Nibhay Nand, a Sydney-based pharmacist with businesses across the South Pacific, said he had spoken to staff in Port Vila who said most of the store there had been "destroyed" and that other buildings nearby had "collapsed". "We are waiting for everyone to get online to know how devastating and traumatic this will be," Nand told AFP. A tsunami warning was issued after the quake, with waves of up to one metre (three feet) forecast for some areas of Vanuatu, but it was soon lifted by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. Earthquakes are common in Vanuatu, a low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people that straddles the seismic Ring of Fire, an arc of intense tectonic activity that stretches through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bodies found amid rubble in Vanuatu capital after powerful 7.3 magnitude quake

A powerful earthquake has hit the pacific nation of Vanuatu. It has brought down buildings in the capital Port Vila, including one used by foreign embassies. Authorities say at least one person has lost his life, while many are feared dead...Watch in for more details!

A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake hit the coast of Vanuatu on Tuesday (Dec 17), causing widespread destruction and severe damage to buildings, including a complex housing several Western embassies, including the United States Embassy, British High Commission, French Embassy, and New Zealand High Commission.

A powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake hit the coast of Vanuatu on Tuesday (Dec 17), causing widespread destruction and severe damage to buildings, including a complex housing several Western embassies, including the United States Embassy, British High Commission, French Embassy, and New Zealand High Commission. The United States Embassy confirmed "considerable damage" and announced the building would remain closed until further notice, though all staff had safely evacuated. The quake caused widespread destruction in Port Vila, triggered tsunami warnings, and left one person dead. Aftershocks ranging between 4.7 and 5.5 magnitudes continue to rattle the region. Embassies sustain major damage The US Embassy in Papua New Guinea reassured in a statement on social media: “While the US Embassy building sustained significant damage, all personnel were able to safely evacuate the building.” Michael Thompson, a Vanuatu resident, described the devastation: “The bottom floor of the embassy block no longer exists. It is completely flat. The top three floors are still holding but have dropped.” Also Read: Bodies found amid rubble in Vanuatu capital after powerful 7.3 magnitude quake Neighbouring countries offer support Authorities in Australia and New Zealand confirmed there is no tsunami threat for their nations and pledged support for Vanuatu. “Vanuatu is family, and we will always be there in times of need,” said Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong. Similarly, New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters expressed, “Our thoughts are with the people and authorities of Vanuatu,” while monitoring the situation closely. Aftershocks and ongoing damage The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported at least four aftershocks following the main quake, with magnitudes ranging from 4.7 to 5.5. Photos shared by AFP depict the collapsed ground floor of the embassy complex, emphasising the scale of destruction. Authorities continue assessing the damage while aftershocks persist, further adding to the challenges faced by residents. (With inputs from agencies)

A powerful earthquake hit the Pacific island of Vanuatu on Tuesday, smashing buildings in the capital Port Vila including one housing the US and other embassies, with a witness telling AFP of bodies seen in the city.

The 7.3-magnitude quake struck at a depth of 57 kilometres (35 miles), some 30 kilometres off the coast of Efate, Vanuatu's main island, at 12:47 pm (0147 GMT), according to the US Geological Survey.

The ground floor of a building housing the US, French and other embassies had been crushed under higher floors, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone after posting images of the destruction on social media.

"That no longer exists. It is just completely flat. The top three floors are still holding but they have dropped," Thompson said.

"If there was anyone in there at the time, then they're gone."

Thompson said the ground floor housed the US embassy. This could not be immediately confirmed.

The United States has closed the embassy until further notice, citing "considerable damage" to the mission, the US embassy in Papua New Guinea said in a message on social media.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wisconsin-school-shooting-police-identify-15-year-old-natalie-rupnow-as-suspect-2nd-grade-kid-made-911-call-784565">Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call</a>

"Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this earthquake," the embassy said.

The New Zealand High Commission, housed in the same building, suffered "significant damage", a statement from Foreign Minister Winston Peters' office said.

"New Zealand is deeply concerned about the significant earthquake in Vanuatu, and the damage it has caused."

<h2>Roof collapsed on cars</h2>

Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said: "There's people in the buildings in town. There were bodies there when we walked past."

A landslide on one road had covered a bus, he said, "so there's obviously some deaths there".

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-markets-waver-as-investors-await-central-bank-rate-decisions-784574">Asian markets waver as investors await central bank rate decisions</a>

The quake also collapsed at least two bridges, and most mobile networks were cut off, Thompson said.

"They're just cracking on with a rescue operation. The support we need from overseas is medical evacuation and skilled rescue, kind of people that can operate in earthquakes," he said.

Video footage posted by Thompson and verified by AFP showed uniformed rescuers and emergency vehicles working on a building where an external roof had collapsed onto a number of parked cars and trucks.

The streets of the city were strewn with broken glass and other debris from damaged buildings, the footage showed.

Nibhay Nand, a Sydney-based pharmacist with businesses across the South Pacific, said he had spoken to staff in Port Vila who said most of the store there had been "destroyed" and that other buildings nearby had "collapsed".

"We are waiting for everyone to get online to know how devastating and traumatic this will be," Nand told AFP.

A tsunami warning was issued after the quake, with waves of up to one metre (three feet) forecast for some areas of Vanuatu, but it was soon lifted by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.

Earthquakes are common in Vanuatu, a low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people that straddles the seismic Ring of Fire, an arc of intense tectonic activity that stretches through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

A powerful earthquake hit the Pacific island of Vanuatu on Tuesday, smashing buildings in the capital Port Vila including one housing the US and other embassies, with a witness telling AFP of bodies seen in the city.

A powerful earthquake hit the Pacific island of Vanuatu on Tuesday, smashing buildings in the capital Port Vila including one housing the US and other embassies, with a witness telling AFP of bodies seen in the city. The 7.3-magnitude quake struck at a depth of 57 kilometres (35 miles), some 30 kilometres off the coast of Efate, Vanuatu's main island, at 12:47 pm (0147 GMT), according to the US Geological Survey. The ground floor of a building housing the US, French and other embassies had been crushed under higher floors, resident Michael Thompson told AFP by satellite phone after posting images of the destruction on social media. "That no longer exists. It is just completely flat. The top three floors are still holding but they have dropped," Thompson said. "If there was anyone in there at the time, then they're gone." Thompson said the ground floor housed the US embassy. This could not be immediately confirmed. The United States has closed the embassy until further notice, citing "considerable damage" to the mission, the US embassy in Papua New Guinea said in a message on social media. Also read | Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call "Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this earthquake," the embassy said. The New Zealand High Commission, housed in the same building, suffered "significant damage", a statement from Foreign Minister Winston Peters' office said. "New Zealand is deeply concerned about the significant earthquake in Vanuatu, and the damage it has caused." Roof collapsed on cars Thompson, who runs a zipline adventure business in Vanuatu, said: "There's people in the buildings in town. There were bodies there when we walked past." A landslide on one road had covered a bus, he said, "so there's obviously some deaths there". Also read | Asian markets waver as investors await central bank rate decisions The quake also collapsed at least two bridges, and most mobile networks were cut off, Thompson said. "They're just cracking on with a rescue operation. The support we need from overseas is medical evacuation and skilled rescue, kind of people that can operate in earthquakes," he said. Video footage posted by Thompson and verified by AFP showed uniformed rescuers and emergency vehicles working on a building where an external roof had collapsed onto a number of parked cars and trucks. The streets of the city were strewn with broken glass and other debris from damaged buildings, the footage showed. Nibhay Nand, a Sydney-based pharmacist with businesses across the South Pacific, said he had spoken to staff in Port Vila who said most of the store there had been "destroyed" and that other buildings nearby had "collapsed". "We are waiting for everyone to get online to know how devastating and traumatic this will be," Nand told AFP. A tsunami warning was issued after the quake, with waves of up to one metre (three feet) forecast for some areas of Vanuatu, but it was soon lifted by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. Earthquakes are common in Vanuatu, a low-lying archipelago of 320,000 people that straddles the seismic Ring of Fire, an arc of intense tectonic activity that stretches through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin. Vanuatu is ranked as one of the countries most susceptible to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis, according to the annual World Risk Report. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tel Aviv, Israel
Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors,  according to a war monitor group.
The military sites located in the coastal Tartus region were targeted by what was one of "the heaviest strikes" in the Syrian area in more than a decade, said Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
"Israeli warplanes launched strikes' targeting a series of sites including air defence units and 'surface-to-surface missile depots," the war monitor said in what it called "the heaviest strikes in Syria's coastal region since the start of strikes in 2012."
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BREAKING:
???? The Israeli airstrike and the resulting explosion in Tartous, Syria was so large, that an earthquake alert of 3.0 on the Richter Scale was triggered <a href="https://t.co/DNqdJEOIKs">pic.twitter.com/DNqdJEOIKs</a>
— Megatron (@Megatron_ron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Megatron_ron/status/1868453865781109114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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As per the officials, the explosion was so huge that its magnitude of 3.0 was recorded on seismic sensors.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-greenlights-11-million-plan-to-double-golan-heights-population-amid-regional-tensions-784232">Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions</a>
Tartus has been one of the two military bases of Russia in Syria and was earlier used as a naval base and an ammunition depot.
The huge explosion, along with the secondary explosions, indicated that a large volume of stored armaments was present in the area.
<h2>Video of the explosion circulates on social media </h2>
In the dramatic videos which circulated on the social media platform, a huge bright flash was seen, followed by various explosions that led to the formation of an enormous cloud of smoke into the air. 
Watch: Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/files/2024/12/16/1612_Manav_ISRAEL_730AM-1734317409-00000003.jpg&videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1612_Manav_ISRAEL_730AM.mp4/index.m3u8&duration=514&tags=israel,Syria,Golan Heights,population" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry said that it had evacuated some of the diplomatic staff from Syria, a week after the nation's dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country.
As per researcher Richard Cordaro, a magnetometer station which is 820km away in Isnik, Turkey also detected the blast.
He said the signal travelled nearly 'twice as fast' as that of a normal earthquake.
In 1971, the Soviet Union was the one to first establish a naval military base in Tartus.
The facility had been classed as a "Material-Technical Support Point" till 2017 and not as a base, and is the only entrance point to the Mediterranean for Russia.
The centre was used for carrying out the supply and delivery of armaments after Russia participated in the Syrian civil war in 2015.
A Kremlin spokesperson said on Wednesday (Dec 11) that Moscow has been in touch with the new authorities in Syria and discussing the future of their bases.
(With inputs from agencies)
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

As per the war monitor group, one of "the heaviest strikes" targeted the coastal Tartus region of Syria

 



Tel Aviv, Israel Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors, according to a war monitor group. The military sites located in the coastal Tartus region were targeted by what was one of "the heaviest strikes" in the Syrian area in more than a decade, said Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. "Israeli warplanes launched strikes' targeting a series of sites including air defence units and 'surface-to-surface missile depots," the war monitor said in what it called "the heaviest strikes in Syria's coastal region since the start of strikes in 2012." BREAKING: ???? The Israeli airstrike and the resulting explosion in Tartous, Syria was so large, that an earthquake alert of 3.0 on the Richter Scale was triggered pic.twitter.com/DNqdJEOIKs — Megatron (@Megatron_ron) December 16, 2024 × As per the officials, the explosion was so huge that its magnitude of 3.0 was recorded on seismic sensors. Also Read: Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions Tartus has been one of the two military bases of Russia in Syria and was earlier used as a naval base and an ammunition depot. The huge explosion, along with the secondary explosions, indicated that a large volume of stored armaments was present in the area. Video of the explosion circulates on social media In the dramatic videos which circulated on the social media platform, a huge bright flash was seen, followed by various explosions that led to the formation of an enormous cloud of smoke into the air. Watch: Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry said that it had evacuated some of the diplomatic staff from Syria, a week after the nation's dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country. As per researcher Richard Cordaro, a magnetometer station which is 820km away in Isnik, Turkey also detected the blast. He said the signal travelled nearly 'twice as fast' as that of a normal earthquake. In 1971, the Soviet Union was the one to first establish a naval military base in Tartus. The facility had been classed as a "Material-Technical Support Point" till 2017 and not as a base, and is the only entrance point to the Mediterranean for Russia. The centre was used for carrying out the supply and delivery of armaments after Russia participated in the Syrian civil war in 2015. A Kremlin spokesperson said on Wednesday (Dec 11) that Moscow has been in touch with the new authorities in Syria and discussing the future of their bases. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Watch: Israel drops 'earthquake bomb' on Syria, explosion gets 'registered on Richter scale'

Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors,&nbsp;&nbsp;according to a war monitor group.

The military sites located in the coastal Tartus region were targeted by what was one of "the heaviest strikes" in the Syrian area in more than a decade, said Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

"Israeli warplanes launched strikes' targeting a series of sites including air defence units and 'surface-to-surface missile depots," the war monitor said in what it called "the heaviest strikes in Syria's coastal region since the start of strikes in 2012."

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BREAKING: 
 
🇮🇱🇸🇾 The Israeli airstrike and the resulting explosion in Tartous, Syria was so large, that an earthquake alert of 3.0 on the Richter Scale was triggered <a href="https://t.co/DNqdJEOIKs">pic.twitter.com/DNqdJEOIKs</a>
— Megatron (@Megatron_ron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Megatron_ron/status/1868453865781109114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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As per the officials, the explosion was so huge that its magnitude of 3.0 was recorded on seismic sensors.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-greenlights-11-million-plan-to-double-golan-heights-population-amid-regional-tensions-784232">Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions</a>

Tartus has been one of the two military bases of Russia in Syria and was earlier used as a naval base and an ammunition depot.

The huge explosion, along with the secondary explosions, indicated that a large volume of stored armaments was present in the area.

<h2>Video of the explosion circulates on social media&nbsp;</h2>

In the dramatic videos which circulated on the social media platform, a huge bright flash was seen, followed by various explosions that led to the formation of an enormous cloud of smoke into the air.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-aims-to-double-population-in-occupied-golan-heights-784239/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry said that it had evacuated some of the diplomatic staff from Syria, a week after the nation's dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country.

As per researcher Richard Cordaro, a magnetometer station which is 820km away in Isnik, Turkey also detected the blast.

He said the signal travelled nearly 'twice as fast' as that of a normal earthquake.

In 1971, the Soviet Union was the one to first establish a naval military base in Tartus.

The facility had been classed as a "Material-Technical Support Point" till 2017 and not as a base, and is the only entrance point to the Mediterranean for Russia.

The centre was used for carrying out the supply and delivery of armaments after Russia participated in the Syrian civil war in 2015.

A Kremlin spokesperson said on Wednesday (Dec 11) that Moscow has been in touch with the new authorities in Syria and discussing the future of their bases.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors, according to a war monitor group.

Israeli strikes on the Syrian military sites filled the skies with 'colossal' explosions as the blasts got registered on earthquake sensors, according to a war monitor group. The military sites located in the coastal Tartus region were targeted by what was one of "the heaviest strikes" in the Syrian area in more than a decade, said Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. "Israeli warplanes launched strikes' targeting a series of sites including air defence units and 'surface-to-surface missile depots," the war monitor said in what it called "the heaviest strikes in Syria's coastal region since the start of strikes in 2012." BREAKING: 🇮🇱🇸🇾 The Israeli airstrike and the resulting explosion in Tartous, Syria was so large, that an earthquake alert of 3.0 on the Richter Scale was triggered pic.twitter.com/DNqdJEOIKs — Megatron (@Megatron_ron) December 16, 2024 × As per the officials, the explosion was so huge that its magnitude of 3.0 was recorded on seismic sensors. Also Read: Israel greenlights $11 million plan to 'double' Golan Heights population amid regional tensions Tartus has been one of the two military bases of Russia in Syria and was earlier used as a naval base and an ammunition depot. The huge explosion, along with the secondary explosions, indicated that a large volume of stored armaments was present in the area. Video of the explosion circulates on social media In the dramatic videos which circulated on the social media platform, a huge bright flash was seen, followed by various explosions that led to the formation of an enormous cloud of smoke into the air. Watch: Israel Aims to 'Double Population' in Occupied Golan Heights Earlier, Russia's foreign ministry said that it had evacuated some of the diplomatic staff from Syria, a week after the nation's dictator Bashar al-Assad fled the country. As per researcher Richard Cordaro, a magnetometer station which is 820km away in Isnik, Turkey also detected the blast. He said the signal travelled nearly 'twice as fast' as that of a normal earthquake. In 1971, the Soviet Union was the one to first establish a naval military base in Tartus. The facility had been classed as a "Material-Technical Support Point" till 2017 and not as a base, and is the only entrance point to the Mediterranean for Russia. The centre was used for carrying out the supply and delivery of armaments after Russia participated in the Syrian civil war in 2015. A Kremlin spokesperson said on Wednesday (Dec 11) that Moscow has been in touch with the new authorities in Syria and discussing the future of their bases. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq and non-state actors like Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

A powerful magnitude 7 earthquake has struck Northern California, causing widespread concern and damage. Authorities are assessing the situation as aftershocks continue, and residents brace for potential impacts on infrastructure and safety.

Magnitude 7 Earthquake Strikes Northern California, Causing Widespread Concern

California was hit by a massive earthquake on Thursday, an event the state has tried to stay alert to for years. The magnitude of the quake was measured at 7.0, according to the National Tsunami Warning Center and the United States Geological Survey. A tsunami warning was issued which was later lifted and no reports of destruction were received.&nbsp;

"A series of powerful waves and strong currents may impact coasts near you. You are in danger. Get away from coastal waters. Move to high ground or inland now," the tsunami alert warned people near the California coast.

Nearly an hour after the quake, the National Tsunami Warning Center said, "No tsunami danger exists for the US&nbsp;West Coast, British Columbia and Alaska."

Scientists were prepared to issue an instant alert to millions of people through California's ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning System (EEW). They say that the system performed exactly as intended on Thursday morning.&nbsp;

The early warning system (EEW) has been developed and operated by the USGS and its partners.

The system is also known as ShakeAlert and is the source of information for the MyShake app that notifies millions of people across California, Oregon and Washington.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-130-earthquakes-have-hit-death-valley-since-oct-9-is-the-big-one-coming-773179">130 earthquakes have hit Death Valley since Oct 9. Is the Big One coming?</a>

Dr Angie Lux, who works with UC Berkeley's Seismology Lab and is a scientist with the EEW, was quoted by ABC10 as saying, "An alert did go out to people throughout Northern California and Oregon, worked exactly as it should have done."

"The EEW was triggered for this earthquake. It did a great job. It worked exactly as it should have done. It estimated the maximum magnitude 6.9, which is absolutely spot on as far as earthquake early warning is concerned," she added.

<h2>ShakeAlert alerts people seconds before the quake is felt&nbsp;</h2>

USGS confirmed that ShakeAlert detected an earthquake as intense as magnitude 8.0. The system is designed to warn people about an earthquake of magnitude 4.5 or higher.

The interesting thing about ShakeAlert is that it detects earthquakes and alerts people seconds before they can feel it. According to Dr Lux, the energy released by a quake tells how strong it is." Although the value doesn't actually change, people can see different calculations once it's analyzed." So there is a little room for tweaking once the computers calculate it or when humans check.

The quake struck the area at 10:45 am local time, around 100 miles south of the Oregon border, the National Tsunami Warning Center said.

ABC News reported Stephen DeLong, a USGS geologist, as saying that no detailed reports of damage or landslides have been received.

California was hit by a massive earthquake on Thursday, an event the state has tried to stay alert to for years. The magnitude of the quake was measured at 7.0, according to the National Tsunami Warning Center and the United States Geological Survey.

California was hit by a massive earthquake on Thursday, an event the state has tried to stay alert to for years. The magnitude of the quake was measured at 7.0, according to the National Tsunami Warning Center and the United States Geological Survey. A tsunami warning was issued which was later lifted and no reports of destruction were received. "A series of powerful waves and strong currents may impact coasts near you. You are in danger. Get away from coastal waters. Move to high ground or inland now," the tsunami alert warned people near the California coast. Nearly an hour after the quake, the National Tsunami Warning Center said, "No tsunami danger exists for the US West Coast, British Columbia and Alaska." Scientists were prepared to issue an instant alert to millions of people through California's ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning System (EEW). They say that the system performed exactly as intended on Thursday morning. The early warning system (EEW) has been developed and operated by the USGS and its partners. The system is also known as ShakeAlert and is the source of information for the MyShake app that notifies millions of people across California, Oregon and Washington. Also Read: 130 earthquakes have hit Death Valley since Oct 9. Is the Big One coming? Dr Angie Lux, who works with UC Berkeley's Seismology Lab and is a scientist with the EEW, was quoted by ABC10 as saying, "An alert did go out to people throughout Northern California and Oregon, worked exactly as it should have done." "The EEW was triggered for this earthquake. It did a great job. It worked exactly as it should have done. It estimated the maximum magnitude 6.9, which is absolutely spot on as far as earthquake early warning is concerned," she added. ShakeAlert alerts people seconds before the quake is felt USGS confirmed that ShakeAlert detected an earthquake as intense as magnitude 8.0. The system is designed to warn people about an earthquake of magnitude 4.5 or higher. The interesting thing about ShakeAlert is that it detects earthquakes and alerts people seconds before they can feel it. According to Dr Lux, the energy released by a quake tells how strong it is." Although the value doesn't actually change, people can see different calculations once it's analyzed." So there is a little room for tweaking once the computers calculate it or when humans check. The quake struck the area at 10:45 am local time, around 100 miles south of the Oregon border, the National Tsunami Warning Center said. ABC News reported Stephen DeLong, a USGS geologist, as saying that no detailed reports of damage or landslides have been received.

Earthquake in California: How USGS's early warning system estimated a near-accurate magnitude

An earthquake of magnitude 5.3 jolted the Mulugu district of Telangana on Wednesday morning, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS).

As per the NCS, the tremor was recorded at around 7:27 am on Wednesday and was centred around the Mulugu region at a depth of 40 km.

"EQ of M: 5.3, On: 04/12/2024 07:27:02 IST, Lat: 18.44 N, Long: 80.24 E, Depth: 40 Km, Location: Mulugu, Telangana," National Centre for Seismology posted on X.

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EQ of M: 5.3, On: 04/12/2024 07:27:02 IST, Lat: 18.44 N, Long: 80.24 E, Depth: 40 Km, Location: Mulugu, Telangana. 
For more information Download the BhooKamp App <a href="https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0">https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrJitendraSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrJitendraSingh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfDrJS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficeOfDrJS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravi_MoES?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ravi_MoES</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/x6FAg300H5">pic.twitter.com/x6FAg300H5</a>
— National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCS_Earthquake/status/1864129397919547493?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

There were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-to-launch-europes-proba-3-satellites-2530-hrs-countdown-starts-781157">ISRO to launch Europe's Proba-3 satellites - 25.30 hours countdown starts</a>

Further details are awaited.

There are four Seismic zones in India - Zone II, Zone III, Zone IV and Zone V. Zone V expects the highest level of seismicity whereas Zone II is associated with the lowest level of seismicity. Telangana is grouped in Zone II, low intensity zone.

Approximately, 11% of the country falls in zone V, approximately18% in zone IV, approximately 30% in zone III and the remaining in zone II. A total of approximately 59% of the landmass of India (covering all states of India) is prone to earthquakes of different intensities.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

An earthquake of magnitude 5.3 jolted the Mulugu district of Telangana on Wednesday morning, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). As per the NCS, the tremor was recorded at around 7:27 am on Wednesday and was centred around the Mulugu region at a depth of 40 km.

An earthquake of magnitude 5.3 jolted the Mulugu district of Telangana on Wednesday morning, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS). As per the NCS, the tremor was recorded at around 7:27 am on Wednesday and was centred around the Mulugu region at a depth of 40 km. "EQ of M: 5.3, On: 04/12/2024 07:27:02 IST, Lat: 18.44 N, Long: 80.24 E, Depth: 40 Km, Location: Mulugu, Telangana," National Centre for Seismology posted on X. EQ of M: 5.3, On: 04/12/2024 07:27:02 IST, Lat: 18.44 N, Long: 80.24 E, Depth: 40 Km, Location: Mulugu, Telangana. For more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0 @DrJitendraSingh @OfficeOfDrJS @Ravi_MoES @Dr_Mishra1966 @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/x6FAg300H5 — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) December 4, 2024 × There were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage. Also read: ISRO to launch Europe's Proba-3 satellites - 25.30 hours countdown starts Further details are awaited. There are four Seismic zones in India - Zone II, Zone III, Zone IV and Zone V. Zone V expects the highest level of seismicity whereas Zone II is associated with the lowest level of seismicity. Telangana is grouped in Zone II, low intensity zone. Approximately, 11% of the country falls in zone V, approximately18% in zone IV, approximately 30% in zone III and the remaining in zone II. A total of approximately 59% of the landmass of India (covering all states of India) is prone to earthquakes of different intensities. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India: Earthquake of magnitude 5.3 jolts Telangana's Mulugu

A moderately strong magnitude-6.4 earthquake struck off the coast of central&nbsp;Japan on&nbsp; Tuesday&nbsp;night, again rattling an area still traumatised by a devastating January jolt.

There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries and a tsunami alert was not issued.&nbsp;

The quake with a depth of 10 kilometres hit off the Noto Peninsula of central&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;at around 10:47 pm, according to the&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;Meteorological Agency.&nbsp;

"This earthquake may cause slight changes to sea levels along the coast of&nbsp;Japan, but there is no expectation of damage,"&nbsp;Japan's Cabinet Office said on social media platform X.&nbsp;

No abnormality has been detected in a local nuclear power plant, public broadcaster NHK quoted nuclear regulation authorities as saying.&nbsp;

An NHK reporter stationed in central&nbsp;Japan's Ishikawa region described feeling the vertical "thrust" when it happened, adding traffic lights near him remained standing.&nbsp;

Sitting on top of four major tectonic plates along the western edge of the Pacific "Ring of Fire",&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;is one of the world's most tectonically active countries.

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The archipelago, home to around 125 million people, experiences around 1,500 jolts every year and accounts for around 18 per cent of the world's earthquakes.

The vast majority are mild, although the damage they cause varies according to their location and the depth below the Earth's surface at which they strike.

On New Year's Day this year, over 400 people died after a massive earthquake hit the peninsula, including "quake-linked" deaths as well as those killed directly in the disaster.

The January 1 quake and its aftershocks toppled buildings, caused fires, and knocked out infrastructure at a time when families were celebrating the new year.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

A moderately strong magnitude-6.4 earthquake struck off the coast of central Japan on Tuesday night, again rattling an area still traumatised by a devastating January jolt.

A moderately strong magnitude-6.4 earthquake struck off the coast of central Japan on Tuesday night, again rattling an area still traumatised by a devastating January jolt. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries and a tsunami alert was not issued. The quake with a depth of 10 kilometres hit off the Noto Peninsula of central Japan at around 10:47 pm, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. "This earthquake may cause slight changes to sea levels along the coast of Japan, but there is no expectation of damage," Japan's Cabinet Office said on social media platform X. No abnormality has been detected in a local nuclear power plant, public broadcaster NHK quoted nuclear regulation authorities as saying. An NHK reporter stationed in central Japan's Ishikawa region described feeling the vertical "thrust" when it happened, adding traffic lights near him remained standing. Sitting on top of four major tectonic plates along the western edge of the Pacific "Ring of Fire", Japan is one of the world's most tectonically active countries. Also read: Japan`s teens are creating tear-like droplets using hot melted glue in a bizarre make-up trend The archipelago, home to around 125 million people, experiences around 1,500 jolts every year and accounts for around 18 per cent of the world's earthquakes. The vast majority are mild, although the damage they cause varies according to their location and the depth below the Earth's surface at which they strike. On New Year's Day this year, over 400 people died after a massive earthquake hit the peninsula, including "quake-linked" deaths as well as those killed directly in the disaster. The January 1 quake and its aftershocks toppled buildings, caused fires, and knocked out infrastructure at a time when families were celebrating the new year. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Magnitude 6.2 earthquake jolts central Japan, local nuclear plant declared safe

Pacific leaders at the UN climate summit in Azerbaijan are criticising Australia's push to expand its gas industry in Western Australia, warning it could emit 125 times more greenhouse gases annually than their nations combined. &nbsp;

As the second week of Cop29 unfolds in Baku, officials from Vanuatu and Tuvalu urged Australia to halt new fossil fuel developments, including extending the lifespan of Woodside's North West Shelf gas facility to 2070. &nbsp;

<h2>A call for accountability &nbsp;</h2>

Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu's special envoy for climate change, accused Australia of hypocrisy, saying it cannot claim climate leadership while expanding fossil fuel projects. &nbsp;

"As the world’s third largest fossil fuel exporter, the Australian government is exporting climate destruction overseas, including to Pacific nations like Vanuatu, who experience the most devastating impacts of the climate crisis, despite contributing the least."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-slams-russias-destruction-and-death-after-largest-air-strike-on-ukraine-776935">Zelensky slams Russia's 'destruction and death' after largest air strike on Ukraine</a>

"This is climate injustice," he stated.&nbsp;

Regenvanu pressed Australia to uphold its commitment from last year's Cop28 in Dubai to transition away from fossil fuels. &nbsp;

Maina Talia, Tuvalu's climate change minister, echoed these concerns, highlighting that limiting global warming to 1.5°C is not just a number but a "lifeline for Pacific communities facing rising seas, accelerating extreme weather disasters and the erosion of our cultures".&nbsp;

"We will continue to keep industrialised countries accountable for their actions... Our future lies solely in their hands," he said.

<h2>Australia and Cop31</h2>

Australia is lobbying to co-host Cop31 in 2026 with Pacific countries, competing against Turkey. &nbsp;

While Pacific nations back Australia’s bid for what’s being dubbed "the Pacific Cop," leaders, including Tonga's and Palau's, stress it must prioritise lifting commitments to cut emissions and support the most vulnerable in the region, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;

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Speaking in Azerbaijan, Tuvalu's climate change minister&nbsp;Talia remarked, that co-host Cop31 would be "an exciting opportunity to accelerate ambitious climate action in our region".

However, she stressed that "a commitment to end new fossil fuels must lie at the heart of this... That means no new coal and gas, and a fair, fast phase-out of all fossil fuels."

(With inputs from agencies)

Pacific leaders at the UN climate summit in Azerbaijan are criticising Australia's push to expand its gas industry in Western Australia, warning it could emit 125 times more greenhouse gases annually than their nations combined.

Pacific leaders at the UN climate summit in Azerbaijan are criticising Australia's push to expand its gas industry in Western Australia, warning it could emit 125 times more greenhouse gases annually than their nations combined. As the second week of Cop29 unfolds in Baku, officials from Vanuatu and Tuvalu urged Australia to halt new fossil fuel developments, including extending the lifespan of Woodside's North West Shelf gas facility to 2070. A call for accountability Ralph Regenvanu, Vanuatu's special envoy for climate change, accused Australia of hypocrisy, saying it cannot claim climate leadership while expanding fossil fuel projects. "As the world’s third largest fossil fuel exporter, the Australian government is exporting climate destruction overseas, including to Pacific nations like Vanuatu, who experience the most devastating impacts of the climate crisis, despite contributing the least." Also read | Zelensky slams Russia's 'destruction and death' after largest air strike on Ukraine "This is climate injustice," he stated. Regenvanu pressed Australia to uphold its commitment from last year's Cop28 in Dubai to transition away from fossil fuels. Maina Talia, Tuvalu's climate change minister, echoed these concerns, highlighting that limiting global warming to 1.5°C is not just a number but a "lifeline for Pacific communities facing rising seas, accelerating extreme weather disasters and the erosion of our cultures". "We will continue to keep industrialised countries accountable for their actions... Our future lies solely in their hands," he said. Australia and Cop31 Australia is lobbying to co-host Cop31 in 2026 with Pacific countries, competing against Turkey. While Pacific nations back Australia’s bid for what’s being dubbed "the Pacific Cop," leaders, including Tonga's and Palau's, stress it must prioritise lifting commitments to cut emissions and support the most vulnerable in the region, reports The Guardian. Also read | Fresh E.coli outbreak in US: 1 dead, dozens infected after eating bacteria-contaminated carrots Speaking in Azerbaijan, Tuvalu's climate change minister Talia remarked, that co-host Cop31 would be "an exciting opportunity to accelerate ambitious climate action in our region". However, she stressed that "a commitment to end new fossil fuels must lie at the heart of this... That means no new coal and gas, and a fair, fast phase-out of all fossil fuels." (With inputs from agencies)

Pacific leaders accuse Australia of 'climate injustice' at COP29

The Philippines on Tuesday (Nov 12) issued a fresh weather warning as the fifth major storm in merely a month threatened the archipelago, just days after Typhoon Toraji led to the evacuation of thousands.

While Toraji caused relatively limited deaths and no reported deaths as per the national weather agency, Typhoon Toraji is gaining strength just two days away from the Philippines' largest and most populous island, Luzon.

<h2>Evacuations imminent?</h2>

So far, the government has not called for evacuations ahead of Typhoon Usagi's arrival.

However, the weather agency warned that “Areas in northern Luzon are at risk of heavy rainfall, severe wind, and, possibly, storm surge inundation from (Usagi) which may cause considerable impacts”.

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In a weather bulletin, it added that Usagi has wind speed of&nbsp;85 kilometres (52.82 miles) an hour and may hit the region late in the day. The storm will likely reach Typhoon category by Wednesday ahead of landfall.

Coastal waters will be rough and "mariners of small seacraft… are advised not to venture out to sea under these conditions", it added.

After Usagi, another storm, Tropical Storm Man-yi might also threaten the Philippines next week, it added. The tropical storm is currently near the Northern Mariana Islands.

<h2>Typhoon Toraji</h2>

While the government is yet to report any casualties from Typhoon Toraji, around 15,000 people are still sheltering at government-run evacuation centres.

The typhoon did not trigger any significant flooding, however, on Tuesday, utility workers, were fixing damaged bridges, restoring electricity and&nbsp;clearing road blockages caused by landslides, fallen trees etc, reported the civil defence office.

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While the full extent of damage to private homes was not known, as per AFP , 29 towns and cities were still without power.

"A small number of people were preemptively evacuated but they have since returned home. Classes at the collegiate level have resumed," said civil defence official Randy Nicolas of Ilocos Norte province on Luzon's South China Sea coast while talking to the news agency.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Philippines on Tuesday (Nov 12) issued a fresh weather warning as the fifth major storm in merely a month threatened the archipelago, just days after Typhoon Toraji led to the evacuation of thousands.

The Philippines on Tuesday (Nov 12) issued a fresh weather warning as the fifth major storm in merely a month threatened the archipelago, just days after Typhoon Toraji led to the evacuation of thousands. While Toraji caused relatively limited deaths and no reported deaths as per the national weather agency, Typhoon Toraji is gaining strength just two days away from the Philippines' largest and most populous island, Luzon. Evacuations imminent? So far, the government has not called for evacuations ahead of Typhoon Usagi's arrival. However, the weather agency warned that “Areas in northern Luzon are at risk of heavy rainfall, severe wind, and, possibly, storm surge inundation from (Usagi) which may cause considerable impacts”. Also read | New storm Kong-rey bears down on Philippines after deadly Trami In a weather bulletin, it added that Usagi has wind speed of 85 kilometres (52.82 miles) an hour and may hit the region late in the day. The storm will likely reach Typhoon category by Wednesday ahead of landfall. Coastal waters will be rough and "mariners of small seacraft… are advised not to venture out to sea under these conditions", it added. After Usagi, another storm, Tropical Storm Man-yi might also threaten the Philippines next week, it added. The tropical storm is currently near the Northern Mariana Islands. Typhoon Toraji While the government is yet to report any casualties from Typhoon Toraji, around 15,000 people are still sheltering at government-run evacuation centres. The typhoon did not trigger any significant flooding, however, on Tuesday, utility workers, were fixing damaged bridges, restoring electricity and clearing road blockages caused by landslides, fallen trees etc, reported the civil defence office. Also read | Typhoon Gaemi forces Taiwan to close schools, stock market after curtailed wargames While the full extent of damage to private homes was not known, as per AFP , 29 towns and cities were still without power. "A small number of people were preemptively evacuated but they have since returned home. Classes at the collegiate level have resumed," said civil defence official Randy Nicolas of Ilocos Norte province on Luzon's South China Sea coast while talking to the news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Philippines readies to face fifth storm in one month; Typhoon Usagi to make landfall soon

The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) has declared that 2024 is “virtually certain” to set a record as the hottest year globally, beating 2023's record as the world's warmest since records began.

This comes just before the COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan, where leaders will push for significant funding boosts to combat climate change.

<h2>The hottest year on record</h2>

C3S data from January to October shows global temperatures climbing so steeply that only an unlikely, drastic cooling in the last months could prevent 2024 from setting a new high.

Talking to Reuters, C3S Director Carlo Buontempo said, “The fundamental, underpinning cause of this year's record is climate change.”

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“The climate is warming, generally,” Buontempo noted, “It's warming in all continents, in all ocean basins. So we are bound to see those records being broken”.

For the first time, Earth in 2024 will cross the 1.5&nbsp;°C warming threshold compared to the 1850-1990 pre-industrial levels. This milestone—once considered a distant risk—is now effectively here, warn scientists.

"It's basically around the corner now," Buontempo said.

Climate scientist Sonia Seneviratne from ETH Zurich said she was not surprised by the fact that we were close to reaching the milestone. Echoing the urgency of COP29, she warned that the world's limited actions on carbon emissions are endangering the Paris Agreement’s targets, originally set to prevent average warming from exceeding 1.5&nbsp;°C by 2030.

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“The limits that were set in the Paris Agreement are starting to crumble given the too-slow pace of climate action across the world,” Seneviratne said.

The temperature spikes this year have contributed to intense and devastating events worldwide. October alone saw catastrophic flash floods in Spain, raging wildfires in Peru, and severe flooding in Bangladesh that destroyed over a million tons of rice, sending food prices soaring. In the US, Hurricane Milton was similarly exacerbated by human-driven climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) has declared that 2024 is “virtually certain” to set a record as the hottest year globally, beating 2023's record as the world's warmest since records began.

The European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) has declared that 2024 is “virtually certain” to set a record as the hottest year globally, beating 2023's record as the world's warmest since records began. This comes just before the COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan, where leaders will push for significant funding boosts to combat climate change. The hottest year on record C3S data from January to October shows global temperatures climbing so steeply that only an unlikely, drastic cooling in the last months could prevent 2024 from setting a new high. Talking to Reuters, C3S Director Carlo Buontempo said, “The fundamental, underpinning cause of this year's record is climate change.” Also read | World will lose 50 heritage sites till 2050 because of climate change, predict experts “The climate is warming, generally,” Buontempo noted, “It's warming in all continents, in all ocean basins. So we are bound to see those records being broken”. For the first time, Earth in 2024 will cross the 1.5 °C warming threshold compared to the 1850-1990 pre-industrial levels. This milestone—once considered a distant risk—is now effectively here, warn scientists. "It's basically around the corner now," Buontempo said. Climate scientist Sonia Seneviratne from ETH Zurich said she was not surprised by the fact that we were close to reaching the milestone. Echoing the urgency of COP29, she warned that the world's limited actions on carbon emissions are endangering the Paris Agreement’s targets, originally set to prevent average warming from exceeding 1.5 °C by 2030. Also read | September becomes second-warmest month on record globally: EU climate monitor “The limits that were set in the Paris Agreement are starting to crumble given the too-slow pace of climate action across the world,” Seneviratne said. The temperature spikes this year have contributed to intense and devastating events worldwide. October alone saw catastrophic flash floods in Spain, raging wildfires in Peru, and severe flooding in Bangladesh that destroyed over a million tons of rice, sending food prices soaring. In the US, Hurricane Milton was similarly exacerbated by human-driven climate change. (With inputs from agencies)

2024 on track to be hottest year in history, says EU climate monitor ahead of COP29

Scientists note that the Indian landmass has been shrinking as it slips under the Tibetan tectonic plate at the rate of 5 to 6 centimetres per year. Indian landmass is subducting or slipping under the Tibetan of the Asian landmass mainly comprising the geographical area of China. Watch this video to find out more.

India's Land is Slowly Slipping Beneath Tibet | Scientists Warn of a Mega Earthquake

When California's "Big One" earthquake strikes, the potential consequences could be catastrophic. Experts warn of widespread destruction, particularly in densely populated areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco. Infrastructure, including bridges, highways, and buildings, may suffer severe damage, leading to significant casualties and disruptions. Emergency services could be overwhelmed, hampering rescue efforts. The economic impact would be substantial, affecting businesses and industries while causing long-term challenges in recovery and rebuilding. Additionally, the event could trigger landslides, fires, and secondary hazards, complicating the situation further. Preparedness and resilience strategies will be crucial in mitigating the effects of such a disaster.

What Could Happen When California's 'Big One' Earthquake Hits

Tokyo already boasts an extensive system of tunnels,Drainage channels and storage cisterns, but like much of the world. Japan is coping with unprecedented weather due to climate change, forcing it to dig once more. To fight climate-induced extreme weather events, Deep below the streets, Tokyo is tunneling to stop climate change flooding the city.

Tokyo Tunnels To Stop Climate Change Flooding

There was panic and confusion in Australia after its weather agency issued a tsunami warning on Wednesday (Sep 25), only to clarify later that it was a test.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued the warning about an '8.2 magnitude earthquake off New Zealand' to the southern half of the country.

Watch:&nbsp;Japan: Earthquake Sparks Tsunami Warning

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The warning was sent around 11.30 am on the mobile phones of people in the southern parts of Australia, mainly New South Wales and Queensland coast. It was sent across push notifications to the BOM app, third-party weather apps, and the social media platform X, reported the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

No tsunami was observed, said the notice, "but if one did form it would start in the Tasman Sea and could sweep through the bottom half of Australia." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2024-indian-ocean-earthquake-and-tsunami-19-years-since-devastating-boxing-day-tsunami-673655">Also read:&nbsp;2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami: 19 years since devastating Boxing Day tsunami</a>

It added that the tsunami would reach Tasmania by midday, Victoria and NSW at around 12.15 pm and Brisbane by 1.15 pm before terminating around Moreton Island, ABC said in a report.

The message was indeed marked "test" but many people did not notice it.

A tsunami is the formation of massive waves caused by earthquakes that take place underwater. Interestingly, the Australian tsunami warning was sent to even people living some 125 km away from the nearest beach, The Guardian said in a report.

A second message was sent some 20 minutes after the first, that said “cancelled tsunami warning,” with a notice that the earlier message was a test.

But by then, the panic had set in.

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Wow, my friend <a href="https://twitter.com/AKOz100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AKOz100</a> sent me this screenshot of a cancelled Tsunami warning for Canberra! I mean, we’re about to have rain today and a 50mm downpour tomorrow but if Lake Burley-Griffin ever had a tsunami, it would probably signal the end of the world was coming!! 🤣😂 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tsunami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tsunami</a>… <a href="https://t.co/AcNDmPvnvs">pic.twitter.com/AcNDmPvnvs</a>
— Ale𝕏 Zaharov-Reutt (@alexonline888) <a href="https://twitter.com/alexonline888/status/1838763920259154087?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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“Holy crap! Just a got a tsunami warning”, one app user wrote on X.

Australian Broadcasting Corporation quoted Queensland state disaster coordinator Shane Chelepy as saying that the alert was "unfortunate" and should never have been sent. "It did include the words that it was a test, but it was not as clear as it could have been," he said.

But he added, "At times it is necessary, as we lead into our high-risk weather systems, that all of our alert systems are ready to go."

The Guardian cited a BOM spokesperson as saying that the test messages were sent as part of a transition to new tsunami early warning system software.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-hit-by-another-60-magnitude-earthquake-as-death-toll-from-new-years-day-quake-crosses-200-mark-678217">Also read:&nbsp;Japan hit by another 6.0-magnitude earthquake as death toll from New Year’s Day quake crosses 200-mark</a> 
 
The bureau later said “there is no tsunami threat to Australia,” adding it "acknowledges and apologises for any confusion that this test may have caused."

“Testing is important to help the Bureau and partners prepare and plan for real tsunami threats,” said the&nbsp;BOM, which is part of the Joint Australian Tsunami Warning Centre (JATWC).

A listener told ABC radio that he did not realise at first that the tsunami watch warning was marked "test" at the top and bottom of the notification.

"It's given me a good practice run for if something does happen," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

There was panic and confusion in Australia after its weather agency issued a tsunami warning on Wednesday (Sep 25), only to clarify later that it was a test. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued the warning about an '8.

There was panic and confusion in Australia after its weather agency issued a tsunami warning on Wednesday (Sep 25), only to clarify later that it was a test. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued the warning about an '8.2 magnitude earthquake off New Zealand' to the southern half of the country. Watch: Japan: Earthquake Sparks Tsunami Warning × The warning was sent around 11.30 am on the mobile phones of people in the southern parts of Australia, mainly New South Wales and Queensland coast. It was sent across push notifications to the BOM app, third-party weather apps, and the social media platform X, reported the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. No tsunami was observed, said the notice, "but if one did form it would start in the Tasman Sea and could sweep through the bottom half of Australia." Also read: 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami: 19 years since devastating Boxing Day tsunami It added that the tsunami would reach Tasmania by midday, Victoria and NSW at around 12.15 pm and Brisbane by 1.15 pm before terminating around Moreton Island, ABC said in a report. The message was indeed marked "test" but many people did not notice it. A tsunami is the formation of massive waves caused by earthquakes that take place underwater. Interestingly, the Australian tsunami warning was sent to even people living some 125 km away from the nearest beach, The Guardian said in a report. A second message was sent some 20 minutes after the first, that said “cancelled tsunami warning,” with a notice that the earlier message was a test. But by then, the panic had set in. Wow, my friend @AKOz100 sent me this screenshot of a cancelled Tsunami warning for Canberra! I mean, we’re about to have rain today and a 50mm downpour tomorrow but if Lake Burley-Griffin ever had a tsunami, it would probably signal the end of the world was coming!! 🤣😂 #tsunami… pic.twitter.com/AcNDmPvnvs — Ale𝕏 Zaharov-Reutt (@alexonline888) September 25, 2024 × “Holy crap! Just a got a tsunami warning”, one app user wrote on X. Australian Broadcasting Corporation quoted Queensland state disaster coordinator Shane Chelepy as saying that the alert was "unfortunate" and should never have been sent. "It did include the words that it was a test, but it was not as clear as it could have been," he said. But he added, "At times it is necessary, as we lead into our high-risk weather systems, that all of our alert systems are ready to go." The Guardian cited a BOM spokesperson as saying that the test messages were sent as part of a transition to new tsunami early warning system software. Also read: Japan hit by another 6.0-magnitude earthquake as death toll from New Year’s Day quake crosses 200-mark The bureau later said “there is no tsunami threat to Australia,” adding it "acknowledges and apologises for any confusion that this test may have caused." “Testing is important to help the Bureau and partners prepare and plan for real tsunami threats,” said the BOM, which is part of the Joint Australian Tsunami Warning Centre (JATWC). A listener told ABC radio that he did not realise at first that the tsunami watch warning was marked "test" at the top and bottom of the notification. "It's given me a good practice run for if something does happen," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia issues tsunami warning after '8.2 magnitude earthquake'. Then this happened...

Officials in Japan's Izu Island issued a tsunami warning after an earthquake of 5.6 magnitude struck near the remote Islands. Watch to know more.

Japan: Tsunami Warning Issued After 5.6 Magnitude Earthquake

Japan: Tsunami hits Izu Islands after earthquake

Japan: Earthquake Sparks Tsunami Warning

The death toll from Typhoon Yagi in Myanmar has risen to 74. The jump in the death toll comes a day after the junta made a rare request for foreign aid to combat the tragic natural disaster. Furthermore, 89 people are missing.

According to official figures, floods, and landslides because of the Typhoon that hit the region last week have killed almost 350 people across Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1972}">Search and rescue operations underway</h2>

Typhoon Yagi is the strongest storm to hit Asia this year. As the flood waters from swollen rivers inundate cities across the region, in Myanmar, the floods "resulted in 74 deaths and 89 people missing" as of Friday evening.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:247,&quot;w&quot;:636,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2084}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-junta-makes-rare-request-for-foreign-aid-as-country-battles-with-massive-floods-758738">Myanmar Junta makes rare request for foreign aid as country battles with massive floods</a>

According to the Global New Light of Myanmar, the floods have destroyed over 65,000 houses and five dams.&nbsp;

Search and rescue operations are underway to look for those missing.

In Myanmar, swathes of farmlands have been inundated, including around the sprawling, low-lying capital Naypyidaw, reports news agency AFP. Landslides have been reported in hilly areas. However, with phone and internet lines down, compiling information has proven difficult.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:428,&quot;w&quot;:710,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2265}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/horrible-scene-at-least-25-dead-40-injured-while-trying-to-collect-leaking-fuel-from-tank-in-haiti-758743">'Horrible scene': At least 25 dead, 40 injured while trying to collect leaking fuel from tank in Haiti</a>

According to state media reports, authorities have opened 82 "relief camps" to house displaced people.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:478,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:17,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2315}">Junta's rare plea for aid</h2>

On Saturday (Sep 14), Myanmar's junta chief made a rare request for foreign aid to deal with the floods, reported state media.

Previously, on Friday, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing&nbsp;according to the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper said,&nbsp;"Officials from the government need to contact foreign countries to receive rescue and relief aid to be provided to the victims."

"It is necessary to manage rescue, relief, and rehabilitation measures as quickly as possible," he was quoted as saying.

This unexpected appeal follows the military's track record of blocking international humanitarian aid.&nbsp;Just last year, the military halted travel authorisations for aid groups trying to reach around a million victims of powerful Cyclone Mocha.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll from Typhoon Yagi in Myanmar has risen to 74. The jump in the death toll comes a day after the junta made a rare request for foreign aid to combat the tragic natural disaster.

The death toll from Typhoon Yagi in Myanmar has risen to 74. The jump in the death toll comes a day after the junta made a rare request for foreign aid to combat the tragic natural disaster. Furthermore, 89 people are missing. According to official figures, floods, and landslides because of the Typhoon that hit the region last week have killed almost 350 people across Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. Search and rescue operations underway Typhoon Yagi is the strongest storm to hit Asia this year. As the flood waters from swollen rivers inundate cities across the region, in Myanmar, the floods "resulted in 74 deaths and 89 people missing" as of Friday evening. Also read | Myanmar Junta makes rare request for foreign aid as country battles with massive floods According to the Global New Light of Myanmar, the floods have destroyed over 65,000 houses and five dams. Search and rescue operations are underway to look for those missing. In Myanmar, swathes of farmlands have been inundated, including around the sprawling, low-lying capital Naypyidaw, reports news agency AFP. Landslides have been reported in hilly areas. However, with phone and internet lines down, compiling information has proven difficult. Also read | 'Horrible scene': At least 25 dead, 40 injured while trying to collect leaking fuel from tank in Haiti According to state media reports, authorities have opened 82 "relief camps" to house displaced people. Junta's rare plea for aid On Saturday (Sep 14), Myanmar's junta chief made a rare request for foreign aid to deal with the floods, reported state media. Previously, on Friday, junta chief Min Aung Hlaing according to the Global New Light of Myanmar newspaper said, "Officials from the government need to contact foreign countries to receive rescue and relief aid to be provided to the victims." "It is necessary to manage rescue, relief, and rehabilitation measures as quickly as possible," he was quoted as saying. This unexpected appeal follows the military's track record of blocking international humanitarian aid. Just last year, the military halted travel authorisations for aid groups trying to reach around a million victims of powerful Cyclone Mocha. (With inputs from agencies)

Typhoon Yagi death toll rises to 74 in Myanmar; 89 missing as floods and landslides wreak havoc

Earthquake Today: Earthquake tremors were reported in Afghanistan and Pakistan on Wednesday (Sep 11) at around 7:28 am GMT (12:58 pm IST).

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:15,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2001}">Earthquake today in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Delhi-NCR</h2>

The tremors were also felt in India's capital, New Delhi, and nearby regions of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and as far as Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the USGS&nbsp;National Earthquake Information Center, the earthquake was of 5.4 magnitude, with its epicentre 31 kilometres west of Karor, Pakistan. However, as per the&nbsp;German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) it had a magnitude of 5.8.

The quake was at a depth of 10 kilometres (6.21 miles), said the GFZ, as per Reuters.

As per India's&nbsp;nodal agency&nbsp;for monitoring of earthquake activity in the country, the earthquake was at "Lat: 31.25 N, Long: 70.52 E".

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EQ of M: 5.8, On: 11/09/2024 12:58:03 IST, Lat: 31.25 N, Long: 70.52 E, Depth: 33 Km, Location: Pakistan. 
For more information Download the BhooKamp App <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:219,&quot;y&quot;:358,&quot;w&quot;:131,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:252,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2344}" href="https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0">https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:354,&quot;y&quot;:358,&quot;w&quot;:106,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:387,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2344}" href="https://twitter.com/DrJitendraSingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrJitendraSingh</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:464,&quot;y&quot;:358,&quot;w&quot;:89,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:497,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2344}" href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfDrJS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficeOfDrJS</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:255,&quot;y&quot;:374,&quot;w&quot;:81,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:288,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2360}" href="https://twitter.com/Ravi_MoES?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ravi_MoES</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:340,&quot;y&quot;:374,&quot;w&quot;:102,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:373,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2360}" href="https://twitter.com/Dr_Mishra1966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dr_Mishra1966</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:446,&quot;y&quot;:374,&quot;w&quot;:73,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:479,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2360}" href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:309,&quot;y&quot;:389,&quot;w&quot;:154,&quot;h&quot;:14,&quot;abs_x&quot;:342,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2375}" href="https://t.co/HlcwIQPI3q">pic.twitter.com/HlcwIQPI3q</a>
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As per reports,&nbsp;the&nbsp;powerful earthquake&nbsp;jolted many cities of Pakistan's Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.&nbsp;The strong tremor which was felt in Lahore, Faisalabad, Jhang, Sialkot, Chiniot, Toba Tek Singh, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Lalamusa, Sangla Hill, Peshawar, Mardan, Swat and Abbottabad created panic.

(Developing story. More to follow)

Earthquake Today: Earthquake tremors were reported in Afghanistan and Pakistan on Wednesday (Sep 11) at around 7:28 am GMT (12:58 pm IST). Earthquake today in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Delhi-NCR The tremors were also felt in India's capital, New Delhi, and nearby regions of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and as far as Jammu and Kashmir.

Earthquake Today: Earthquake tremors were reported in Afghanistan and Pakistan on Wednesday (Sep 11) at around 7:28 am GMT (12:58 pm IST). Earthquake today in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Delhi-NCR The tremors were also felt in India's capital, New Delhi, and nearby regions of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and as far as Jammu and Kashmir. According to the USGS National Earthquake Information Center, the earthquake was of 5.4 magnitude, with its epicentre 31 kilometres west of Karor, Pakistan. However, as per the German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) it had a magnitude of 5.8. The quake was at a depth of 10 kilometres (6.21 miles), said the GFZ, as per Reuters. As per India's nodal agency for monitoring of earthquake activity in the country, the earthquake was at "Lat: 31.25 N, Long: 70.52 E". EQ of M: 5.8, On: 11/09/2024 12:58:03 IST, Lat: 31.25 N, Long: 70.52 E, Depth: 33 Km, Location: Pakistan. For more information Download the BhooKamp App https://t.co/5gCOtjdtw0 @DrJitendraSingh @OfficeOfDrJS @Ravi_MoES @Dr_Mishra1966 @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/HlcwIQPI3q — National Center for Seismology (@NCS_Earthquake) September 11, 2024 × As per reports, the powerful earthquake jolted many cities of Pakistan's Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The strong tremor which was felt in Lahore, Faisalabad, Jhang, Sialkot, Chiniot, Toba Tek Singh, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Lalamusa, Sangla Hill, Peshawar, Mardan, Swat and Abbottabad created panic. (Developing story. More to follow)

Earthquake today: 5.8 magnitude earthquake jolts Pakistan; Afghanistan and India also feel the tremors

In the Brazilian capital, a massive wildfire has destroyed about 20 per cent of a forest, cloaking the city in a cloud of grey-white smoke. The blaze, as per officials, was believed to have been started by arsonists.

<h2>Conservation area</h2>

As per Reuters, the National Forest of Brasília is a conservation area that stretches to over 5,600 hectares of woodland home to springs that are the source of over 70 per cent of the city's freshwater.

"We have put out three of the four blazes, and we hope to have the fire under control by the end of the day," said Fabio dos Santos Miranda.

Miranda, who manages the forest in an interview, added that they were "sure this was an environmental crime, but we haven't confirmed if it was intentional or not."&nbsp;

He added that three suspected arsonists were seen in the area where the fire started.

<h2>Nearby orchards under threat</h2>

Orchards adjoining the area are under threat from the blaze and firefighters are struggling to contain it and stop it from spreading to orchards where farmers grow tomatoes and flowers.

"We are working to protect the orchards," said fireman Major Godoy. However, he said that "the wind is blowing the fire towards them and the sparks fly a long way."

<h2>Brazil, wildfires and August</h2>

According to the data from Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), satellites in August detected over 38,000 fires — 38,266 to be exact. This is more than double compared to the fires in the Amazon rainforest in 2023, and the highest — by about 38 per cent, for this month in over a decade — since 2010.

This 14-year high, as per a Reuters report, comes after fire hotspots in August surged to a two-decade high and as Brazil battles the second straight year of extreme drought.

As per the report in the naturally wet, moist biome, fires usually start due to cattle ranching as people convert the jungle into pastures. Dry conditions and warm air aid the spread of these fires, which burn more intensely and for longer.

In August, thousands of fires were driven by a combination of weather, climate change and human action, said Helga Correa, a conservation specialist at WWF-Brasil, in an initial assessment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:131,&quot;w&quot;:582,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1817}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-deploys-1500-firefighters-to-tackle-amazon-wildfires-amidst-severe-drought-752469">Brazil deploys 1,500 firefighters to tackle Amazon wildfires amidst severe drought</a>

"The region where we detected concentrated smoke in August coincides with the so-called Arch of Deforestation, which includes the north of Rondonia, the south of Amazonas and the southwest of Para," said Correa.

(With inputs from agencies)

In the Brazilian capital, a massive wildfire has destroyed about 20 per cent of a forest, cloaking the city in a cloud of grey-white smoke. The blaze, as per officials, was believed to have been started by arsonists.

In the Brazilian capital, a massive wildfire has destroyed about 20 per cent of a forest, cloaking the city in a cloud of grey-white smoke. The blaze, as per officials, was believed to have been started by arsonists. Conservation area As per Reuters, the National Forest of Brasília is a conservation area that stretches to over 5,600 hectares of woodland home to springs that are the source of over 70 per cent of the city's freshwater. "We have put out three of the four blazes, and we hope to have the fire under control by the end of the day," said Fabio dos Santos Miranda. Miranda, who manages the forest in an interview, added that they were "sure this was an environmental crime, but we haven't confirmed if it was intentional or not." He added that three suspected arsonists were seen in the area where the fire started. Nearby orchards under threat Orchards adjoining the area are under threat from the blaze and firefighters are struggling to contain it and stop it from spreading to orchards where farmers grow tomatoes and flowers. "We are working to protect the orchards," said fireman Major Godoy. However, he said that "the wind is blowing the fire towards them and the sparks fly a long way." Brazil, wildfires and August According to the data from Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), satellites in August detected over 38,000 fires — 38,266 to be exact. This is more than double compared to the fires in the Amazon rainforest in 2023, and the highest — by about 38 per cent, for this month in over a decade — since 2010. This 14-year high, as per a Reuters report, comes after fire hotspots in August surged to a two-decade high and as Brazil battles the second straight year of extreme drought. As per the report in the naturally wet, moist biome, fires usually start due to cattle ranching as people convert the jungle into pastures. Dry conditions and warm air aid the spread of these fires, which burn more intensely and for longer. In August, thousands of fires were driven by a combination of weather, climate change and human action, said Helga Correa, a conservation specialist at WWF-Brasil, in an initial assessment. Also read | Brazil deploys 1,500 firefighters to tackle Amazon wildfires amidst severe drought "The region where we detected concentrated smoke in August coincides with the so-called Arch of Deforestation, which includes the north of Rondonia, the south of Amazonas and the southwest of Para," said Correa. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil: Wildfire burns 20 per cent of forest, arson suspected

In the Amazon rainforest, the month of August saw the number of fires surge to the highest levels since 2010, government data released on Sunday (Sep 1) showed. The increase follows a record drought that has been plaguing the biome.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:85,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1771}">How many fires are we talking about?</h2>

According to the data from Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), satellites in August detected over 38,000 fires — 38,266 to be exact. This is more than double compared to the fires in the Amazon rainforest in 2023, and the highest — by about 38 per cent, for this month in over a decade — since 2010.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-wildfires-released-647-megatonnes-of-green-house-gas-in-2022-fourth-biggest-source-of-global-emissions-754406">Canada wildfires released 647 megatonnes of greenhouse gas in 2022, 4th biggest source of global emissions</a>

This 14-year high, as per a Reuters report, comes after fire hotspots in August surged to a two-decade high and as Brazil battles the second straight year of extreme drought.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:283,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1969}">Conditions contributing to the fires</h2>

As per the report in the naturally wet, moist biome, fires usually start due to cattle ranching as people convert the jungle into pastures. Dry conditions and warm air aid the spread of these fires, which burn more intensely and for longer.

In August, thousands of fires were driven by a combination of weather, climate change and human action, said Helga Correa, a conservation specialist at WWF-Brasil, in an initial assessment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:88,&quot;y&quot;:444,&quot;w&quot;:582,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:121,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2130}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-deploys-1500-firefighters-to-tackle-amazon-wildfires-amidst-severe-drought-752469">Brazil deploys 1,500 firefighters to tackle Amazon wildfires amidst severe drought</a>

"The region where we detected concentrated smoke in August coincides with the so-called Arch of Deforestation, which includes the north of Rondonia, the south of Amazonas and the southwest of Para," said Correa.

"This indicates that, in addition to climate change and El Niño, changes in land use produced by humans play a central role in the increase in fires," she added.

In the Amazon rainforest, the month of August saw the number of fires surge to the highest levels since 2010, government data released on Sunday (Sep 1) showed. The increase follows a record drought that has been plaguing the biome.

In the Amazon rainforest, the month of August saw the number of fires surge to the highest levels since 2010, government data released on Sunday (Sep 1) showed. The increase follows a record drought that has been plaguing the biome. How many fires are we talking about? According to the data from Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (Inpe), satellites in August detected over 38,000 fires — 38,266 to be exact. This is more than double compared to the fires in the Amazon rainforest in 2023, and the highest — by about 38 per cent, for this month in over a decade — since 2010. Also read | Canada wildfires released 647 megatonnes of greenhouse gas in 2022, 4th biggest source of global emissions This 14-year high, as per a Reuters report, comes after fire hotspots in August surged to a two-decade high and as Brazil battles the second straight year of extreme drought. Conditions contributing to the fires As per the report in the naturally wet, moist biome, fires usually start due to cattle ranching as people convert the jungle into pastures. Dry conditions and warm air aid the spread of these fires, which burn more intensely and for longer. In August, thousands of fires were driven by a combination of weather, climate change and human action, said Helga Correa, a conservation specialist at WWF-Brasil, in an initial assessment. Also read | Brazil deploys 1,500 firefighters to tackle Amazon wildfires amidst severe drought "The region where we detected concentrated smoke in August coincides with the so-called Arch of Deforestation, which includes the north of Rondonia, the south of Amazonas and the southwest of Para," said Correa. "This indicates that, in addition to climate change and El Niño, changes in land use produced by humans play a central role in the increase in fires," she added.

Fires in Brazil's Amazon rainforest 'blaze' to a 14-year-high amidst severe drought

In an era marked by environmental challenges, the concept of eco-anxiety has emerged as an overwhelming toll on our hearts and minds.

<h2>Eco-Anxiety: The silent struggle</h2>

As people around the world grapple with environmental issues causing climate crisis, ranging from pollution, deforestation, forest fires and heat waves, there has emerged a profound sense of worry and helplessness.&nbsp;

This in many cases leads to a new form of psychological distress, for which experts have coined the term: "Eco-Anxiety".

The American Psychological Association (APA) recognises it as a "chronic fear of environmental doom".&nbsp;

The term encapsulates the psychological impact of ecological concerns faced by individuals as they witness the degradation of our environment and see its visible effects like smog-blanketed skies — daily reminders of the challenges our planet and we face.

<h2>Pollution and mental health</h2>

Recently, the Indian capital New Delhi has been living under a blanket of toxic air, which has made it hard for people to breathe.&nbsp;

There were days when the AQI (Air Quality Index) levels plummeted to a hazardous level of up to 999 in some areas. Naturally, this gave rise to a number of health problems. While many landed in hospitals, others battled a silent enemy.

Recent research has also shed light on the connection between pollution and mental health. Studies indicate that exposure to air pollution can contribute to an increased risk of mental health issues.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-gets-a-breather-overnight-rains-bring-clear-smog-657159">New Delhi gets a breather, overnight rains bring relief, clear smog</a>

Talking to WION, Shannon Olsson, a chemical ecologist with over 20 years of experience said that for Delhi, the well-known pollution causes like vehicular emissions, stubble burning etc "come together in (a) perfect storm to create these incredibly high pollution levels which are really a little hard to comprehend even when you're in Delhi".

<h2>A sense of helplessness&nbsp;</h2>

Olsson, who is the Danish Academy of Technical Sciences (ATV) Special Scientific Envoy to India, said that natural disasters, coupled with wars and the many crises lead to a "helplessness that you feel as an individual".

"You feel like, what can I possibly do to try to control this? It feels like you have very little control and that produces obviously a fear because also these things are dangerous."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baltic-sea-situation-dire-due-to-human-activities-and-global-warming-report-654606">Baltic Sea in 'dire' state due to human activities and global warming: Report</a>

Olsson, the Founder and Global Director at the echo network says that eco-anxiety can manifest helplessness similar to what one feels when "they've lost a loved one or lost a job," which then "causes huge anxiety" especially among "children and our youth who are growing up in these environments where they feel very, very insecure about their own futures."

This sense of helplessness is also felt by parents.

Talking to WION, Neha Sonawane, a lawyer and a new mother, summed up the eco-anxiety felt by parents in one line: "As I started on this journey of parenthood, it is mostly this feeling of overwhelming sense of responsibility for the world".

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"I don't know how much my small footprint matters in this larger carbon footprint, but I can try and I can hope that I teach my child a kind, more sustainable method of living," she added.

<h2>How to deal with eco-anxiety?</h2>

Like any other mental health concern, seeking professional help is a must. Along with that, it takes effort.

"Anything like air pollution, it can't be dealt with by one person, it requires a concerted effort and I think this is one of the major limiting factors," says Olsson.

Living sustainably is another way.

"There are lots of ways that we can reduce our impact on the environment by reusing items by reducing our usage of things like plastic by trying to walk as much as possible by trying to reduce or trying to take public transport as it's available to us."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/astronomers-want-to-give-space-a-socially-conscious-makeover-push-for-renaming-magellan-galaxies-658473">Scientists call to rename Magellan galaxies alleging their namesake had a violent legacy</a>

"There's many things that we can do and there's lots of alternatives coming out all the time so just keeping our minds open to what is available to us. And there's lots of cool startups in India right now that are doing really great things, really wonderful, sustainable things that helps me a lot because it helps me to know that there are really wonderful people doing great things and that reduces my anxiety by just seeing that light in other people," she adds.

However, as per Olsson, all is not bad.

"As a scientist I can tell you if you look at the statistics, the world is actually getting better. Overall, people are living better, things are getting better. The world is actually not as bad as it seems. We just have to keep that hope and keep trying."&nbsp;

"So the important thing I say is, do not give up, do not just sit down and say there's nothing, the world is ending. Because it's not."

In an era marked by environmental challenges, the concept of eco-anxiety has emerged as an overwhelming toll on our hearts and minds. Eco-Anxiety: The silent struggle As people around the world grapple with environmental issues causing climate crisis, ranging from pollution, deforestation, forest fires and heat waves, there has emerged a profound sense of worry and helplessness.

In an era marked by environmental challenges, the concept of eco-anxiety has emerged as an overwhelming toll on our hearts and minds. Eco-Anxiety: The silent struggle As people around the world grapple with environmental issues causing climate crisis, ranging from pollution, deforestation, forest fires and heat waves, there has emerged a profound sense of worry and helplessness. This in many cases leads to a new form of psychological distress, for which experts have coined the term: "Eco-Anxiety". The American Psychological Association (APA) recognises it as a "chronic fear of environmental doom". The term encapsulates the psychological impact of ecological concerns faced by individuals as they witness the degradation of our environment and see its visible effects like smog-blanketed skies — daily reminders of the challenges our planet and we face. Pollution and mental health Recently, the Indian capital New Delhi has been living under a blanket of toxic air, which has made it hard for people to breathe. There were days when the AQI (Air Quality Index) levels plummeted to a hazardous level of up to 999 in some areas. Naturally, this gave rise to a number of health problems. While many landed in hospitals, others battled a silent enemy. Recent research has also shed light on the connection between pollution and mental health. Studies indicate that exposure to air pollution can contribute to an increased risk of mental health issues. Also read | New Delhi gets a breather, overnight rains bring relief, clear smog Talking to WION, Shannon Olsson, a chemical ecologist with over 20 years of experience said that for Delhi, the well-known pollution causes like vehicular emissions, stubble burning etc "come together in (a) perfect storm to create these incredibly high pollution levels which are really a little hard to comprehend even when you're in Delhi". A sense of helplessness Olsson, who is the Danish Academy of Technical Sciences (ATV) Special Scientific Envoy to India, said that natural disasters, coupled with wars and the many crises lead to a "helplessness that you feel as an individual". "You feel like, what can I possibly do to try to control this? It feels like you have very little control and that produces obviously a fear because also these things are dangerous." Also read | Baltic Sea in 'dire' state due to human activities and global warming: Report Olsson, the Founder and Global Director at the echo network says that eco-anxiety can manifest helplessness similar to what one feels when "they've lost a loved one or lost a job," which then "causes huge anxiety" especially among "children and our youth who are growing up in these environments where they feel very, very insecure about their own futures." This sense of helplessness is also felt by parents. Talking to WION, Neha Sonawane, a lawyer and a new mother, summed up the eco-anxiety felt by parents in one line: "As I started on this journey of parenthood, it is mostly this feeling of overwhelming sense of responsibility for the world". "My child would inherit the reality of climate change along with man made disasters and wars". × "I don't know how much my small footprint matters in this larger carbon footprint, but I can try and I can hope that I teach my child a kind, more sustainable method of living," she added. How to deal with eco-anxiety? Like any other mental health concern, seeking professional help is a must. Along with that, it takes effort. "Anything like air pollution, it can't be dealt with by one person, it requires a concerted effort and I think this is one of the major limiting factors," says Olsson. Living sustainably is another way. "There are lots of ways that we can reduce our impact on the environment by reusing items by reducing our usage of things like plastic by trying to walk as much as possible by trying to reduce or trying to take public transport as it's available to us." Also read | Scientists call to rename Magellan galaxies alleging their namesake had a violent legacy "There's many things that we can do and there's lots of alternatives coming out all the time so just keeping our minds open to what is available to us. And there's lots of cool startups in India right now that are doing really great things, really wonderful, sustainable things that helps me a lot because it helps me to know that there are really wonderful people doing great things and that reduces my anxiety by just seeing that light in other people," she adds. However, as per Olsson, all is not bad. "As a scientist I can tell you if you look at the statistics, the world is actually getting better. Overall, people are living better, things are getting better. The world is actually not as bad as it seems. We just have to keep that hope and keep trying." "So the important thing I say is, do not give up, do not just sit down and say there's nothing, the world is ending. Because it's not."

Pollution, climate crisis, and more: 'Eco-anxiety' driving up 'impending sense of doom'

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