According to the local authorities, the seismic intensities were recorded as high as X (Extreme) or for comparison similar to the strength of a much larger 8.2 magnitude earthquake.

Eyewitnesses had reportedly seen 3 m (9.8 ft) waves approaching the shores; however, the maximum run-up crest height of the tsunami recorded by gauges were only 30–40 cm (12–16 in).

[7][8] There were no immediate reports of serious casualties but the earthquake caused major damage to buildings and infrastructure such as numerous schools, as well as factories and shops that were deemed unsafe.

Matt Robson, The Associate Foreign Affairs Minister of New Zealand from 1999 to 2002, said the following: "This cash grant will go towards temporary repair of the Teouma bridge on the main island of Efate and other immediate repair work to infrastructure links damaged by the earthquake," "Vanuatu's roads and the Teouma Bridge have sustained major damage from the earthquake, cutting off many vital transport links; The Teouma Bridge is a particularly important link for those who live in the northern and eastern parts of Efate and rely on ready access to Port Vila for their income.

The FRANZ (France, Australia and New Zealand) group has promised to keep an eye on the National Disaster Management office and Public Works Department to assess the need for long term donor assistance.

[10][11] The Vanuatu Red Cross Society's (VRCS) Operation Centre had to be centered inside a large tent because the main headquarters building was seriously damaged from the quake.

The Red Cross response was helping those who were severely traumatized by the earthquake and to those who sustained minor to moderate injuries from falling debris.