Vanuatu earthquake leaves 14 dead, hundreds injured as rescue efforts continue

A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, has left 14 dead and hundreds injured. With over 116,000 people affected, rescue operations are ongoing, and authorities fear the death toll will continue to rise.

The death toll from the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, on December 17th has reached 14, with officials fearing it will climb further. Over 200 people have been injured, and rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors trapped under the rubble. The National Disaster Management office has confirmed that approximately 116,000 people—around one-third of the country’s population—have been affected by the disaster.

Rescue operations are focused on the most heavily damaged areas, where collapsed buildings and landslides have compounded the destruction. Hospitals in Port Vila are overwhelmed, with emergency departments operating around the clock to treat the injured. Dr. Basil Leodoro, Health Emergency Response Director for Respond Global, reported that more than 200 casualties have been treated at Vila Central Hospital and the Vanuatu Mobile Force Barracks Hospital. "The number of confirmed deaths is expected to rise as more victims are found," Leodoro said.

In response to the overwhelming medical needs, the Vanuatu government has declared a state of emergency in the worst-hit areas and imposed a curfew. The state of emergency, which will last for five days, was also supported by international partners such as UNICEF.

Eric Durpaire, Chief of the UNICEF Field Office in Vanuatu, highlighted the organization’s immediate efforts to support the country’s response. “We are assisting with first aid kits and providing tents for the damaged hospital, as people are reluctant to enter due to concerns about the building’s safety,” he said.

In addition to medical support, UNICEF is also addressing the urgent need for clean water, as the earthquake has disrupted water supply systems. With contaminated water leading to an increase in cases of diarrhea, particularly among children, UNICEF is working with local authorities to provide essential water distribution and sanitation services.