Earthquake strikes near Port-Olry, Vanuatu

A magnitude 6.8 earthquake has been recorded near the coast of Port-Olry on Vanuatu's largest island, triggering a tsunami warning for nearby areas.

The quake was at a depth of 91km and was about 19km northwest of Port-Olry, which is located on the northeast of Espiritu Santo, according to the US Geological Survey.

The USGS had initially put the magnitude at 7.1 and the depth at 83.3 km.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said hazardous waves were possible for coasts located within 300 km of the epicentre.