A preliminary magnitude 6.9 earthquake has hit off the coast of Vanuatu, according to the US Geological Survey, prompting a tsunami warning for the area that was later rescinded.

The quake in the South Pacific struck early on Saturday afternoon and was centred 197km west-northwest of Port Olry, at a depth of 10km.

Several aftershocks were later recorded in the area, including a preliminary magnitude 6.3 quake, according to the USGS.

There were no immediate reports of damage.

Australian Associated Press