WHAT WAS CLAIMED
The HAARP ionospheric research facility is linked to the earthquake in Vanuatu.
OUR VERDICT
False. The radio waves emitted by HAARP can't cause earthquakes or natural disasters.
AAP FACTCHECK - Social media posts have falsely linked the recent deadly earthquake in Vanuatu to a research facility located in Alaska.
Many users have suggested the High-frequency Active Auroral Research Program (HAARP) had a role in the quake which struck the Pacific island nation on December 17, 2024.
But experts say the research facility cannot trigger natural disasters.
The magnitude 7.3 earthquake occurred 30 kilometres off the coast of Efate, the main island of Vanuatu, causing damage across its capital city Port Vila.The National Disaster Management office confirmed nine deaths, with more than 200 people injured.