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.
A 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit Port Vila, Vanuatu’s capital, on Tuesday, causing significant damage and killing at least one person. Emergency efforts are underway as buildings collapse, roads are blocked, and communications are disrupted.
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China's President Xi Jinping visits Macau to celebrate 25 years under Beijing's rule, urging economic diversification from gambling and attending the inauguration of its new leader.
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As Christmas is near, Brazil celebrates early as Santa Claus arrives in his unique way, making this holiday season one to remember.
Two astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are hit with a new delay after months of being stuck in the International Space Station.
Chinese astronauts Cai Xuzhe and Song Lingdong set a global record with a 9-hour spacewalk outside Tiangong Station, surpassing the 2001 milestone by American astronauts.
China's President Xi Jinping visits Macau to celebrate 25 years under Beijing's rule, urging economic diversification from gambling and attending the inauguration of its new leader.
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