News in brief

Vanuatu Struck by Powerful Earthquake, Causing Widespread Destruction

Tuesday 17 December 2024 - 16:30

A powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake has struck near Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, leaving significant
in its wake. The earthquake, which hit at 12:47 local time (01:47 GMT) on Tuesday, triggered landslides, destroyed buildings, and crushed vehicles. Among the collapsed structures was a complex housing multiple Western embassies.

Reports of fatalities are emerging, although the full scope of the damage remains unclear due to disrupted power and communication networks across the country. Dan McGarry, a journalist based in Port Vila, shared that local hospital authorities confirmed at least one death, with several others suffering serious injuries. He described the earthquake as "the biggest one... in more than 20 years," highlighting its intensity in a region that is no stranger to seismic activity.

Emergency services are overwhelmed as they begin the arduous task of searching for survivors in the rubble. McGarry noted that rescue teams have limited resources but are working tirelessly to assist those in need. One witness, Michael Thompson, described seeing bodies in the streets and the devastation around town. His wife, Amanda, who was at home during the quake, shared how frightening the experience was as their house suffered significant structural damage.

Despite the devastation, McGarry emphasized that the people of Vanuatu are resilient, noting that they routinely face natural disasters. "It’s in our blood," he said. "We’ll get through this as well, although not without some suffering."

Vanuatu, an island nation located in the South Pacific, is situated in a seismically active region, making it vulnerable to earthquakes and other natural disasters. The complex housing several foreign embassies, including those of the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and New Zealand, sustained considerable damage, but all staff members were safely evacuated.

Air travel has also been affected, with several Australian airlines cancelling flights to Port Vila due to reports of damage at the airport. The United States Geological Survey reported multiple aftershocks, ranging from magnitudes of 4.7 to 5.5, following the initial earthquake.

In response to the disaster, neighboring countries have expressed solidarity. Australia pledged support to Vanuatu, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong reaffirming that "Vanuatu is family and we will always be there in times of need." New Zealand has also voiced concern, with Foreign Minister Winston Peters offering their thoughts to the people of Vanuatu as the situation continues to unfold.

As the full extent of the damage is assessed, the people of Vanuatu continue to face the aftermath of this devastating earthquake, united in their resilience to overcome the crisis.