A powerful earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.3 has struck the Pacific Ocean near the island nation of Vanuatu, seismologists say.

The earthquake, at 8:52 a.m. local time on Wednesday, was centered about 46 kilometers northeast of Port-Olry.

It struck about 117 kilometers (72 miles) deep, making it a fairly deep earthquake.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said there was no threat of a destructive Pacific-wide tsunami.

There was no immediate word on damage or casualties.