At least 14 people have been confirmed dead in Vanuatu after a powerful 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck the Pacific Island nation’s capital, Port Vila, on Tuesday.
The disaster caused widespread destruction, reduced buildings to rubble, triggered landslides, and disrupted power and telecommunications.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), approximately one-third of the archipelago’s population of 335,000 has been affected by the quake, making it one of the most significant natural disasters in the nation’s history.
Rising death toll and injuries
Katie Greenwood, the Asia Pacific head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, confirmed that 14 fatalities have been reported so far, with over 200 injured currently being treated at Port Vila’s main hospital. However, authorities fear that the death toll could rise further as rescue operations continue.
Dan McGarry, a long-time resident and journalist, expressed concerns about the increasing casualty figures. “We also have people who may have been trapped under a very large landslide near our international shipping terminal. We know that there are six fatalities confirmed so far in that locale,” McGarry told Al Jazeera.
Search and rescue operations underway
Rescuers are racing against time to locate survivors buried under debris. Michael Thompson, an Australian citizen assisting with rescue efforts, revealed that three individuals were pulled alive from the rubble overnight. “Incredible displays of bravery with people entering confined spaces to conduct rescues,” he shared on social media.
International aid is being swiftly mobilised to assist the island nation. Australia and New Zealand announced the deployment of medical and rescue teams to provide immediate support. “Australia stands with the people of Vanuatu following yesterday’s devastating earthquake. Our deepest sympathies go to the people of that wonderful, beautiful country,” Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers said in a press conference.
The earthquake has caused severe infrastructure damage, complicating rescue and relief efforts. Roads leading to the airport and water port are significantly damaged, while telecommunications remain disrupted. OCHA noted that key immediate needs include healthcare support, clean water, shelter, and the restoration of emergency communications.
A complex housing the diplomatic missions of Britain, France, New Zealand, and the United States has also suffered serious structural damage, with part of the building collapsing entirely.
Despite the tragedy, the people of Vanuatu remain calm and cooperative, said McGarry, citing the country’s familiarity with natural disasters such as cyclones. “Vanuatu society still has a very strong spirit of cooperation,” he noted.
The quake’s toll, however, is being deeply felt in the nation’s tight-knit communities, where “everybody knows everybody,” McGarry added.
