Rescue Efforts Intensify After 7.3-Magnitude Earthquake in Vanuatu Leaves at Least 14 Dead
Rescue teams in Vanuatu are working against the clock to locate survivors of a devastating 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck the capital Port Vila on Tuesday. The earthquake, which has caused widespread destruction, has claimed at least 14 lives and injured hundreds more.
The powerful earthquake reduced buildings to rubble, triggered landslides, and knocked out vital infrastructure, including power and telecommunications. Katie Greenwood, Asia Pacific head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, confirmed that 200 people are being treated for injuries at the main hospital in Port Vila.
In response to the disaster, Australia and New Zealand have deployed medical and rescue teams to Vanuatu, offering immediate assistance. Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers conveyed Australia’s sympathies, acknowledging the significant damage and pledging support for the affected population.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that about one-third of the 335,000 people in Vanuatu have been impacted by the earthquake’s devastation. The office also noted that communication disruptions have hindered the timely reporting of damages from more remote areas, and access to key transport hubs such as the airport and water ports is limited due to road damage.
The immediate needs of the affected population include healthcare, shelter, clean water, and the restoration of emergency communications. Efforts on the ground have been supported by local residents.
The disaster has left a profound emotional impact on the island nation, where communities are tightly-knit.
The earthquake also damaged a diplomatic complex in Port Vila, which houses the embassies of Britain, France, New Zealand, and the United States. A section of the building collapsed, damaging the first floor, further compounding the severity of the situation.
