Attachments
Highlights:
- A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck near Vanuatu's coast in the South Pacific Ocean at 12:51 PM local time on December 17, 2024, followed by numerous aftershocks of varying but strong intensities. A 6.1 magnitude aftershock was recorded in the early hours of 22 December. The most affected area was the densely populated capital city of Port Vila, Efate. The government declared a State of Emergency for a period of seven days.
- About 80,000 people are estimated to be affected, with the government confirming 12 fatalities either from collapsed buildings or landslides. The numbers may rise as search and rescue operations intensifies and expands. Over 210 injured were treated at the main Vila Central Hospital (VCH).
- According to the Government of Vanuatu’s (GoV) National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), two major water reserves in Ohlen area which supplies water to Port Vila have been totally destroyed and will need reconstruction, while the assessment of the water network is ongoing.
- Many buildings have either collapsed or sustained significant structural damages with search and rescue operations in damaged buildings still ongoing. Several landslides were also set off in and around Port Vila with key roads and bridges connecting the airport and the main seaport severely damaged. While the seaport remains closed, the airport is operational for incoming humanitarian assistance and commercial flights were reinstated as of 22 December.
Mobile phone communication is now functional with intermittent disruptions. However, regular internet connection is yet to be restored with many response partners using Starlink for internet services.
UNICEF Vanuatu field office has a team of 19 staff and consultants and are working with local authorities and partners to simultaneously respond to critical WASH and Health needs as well as assess the extent of damage and urgent support needed. Four surge staff members including the Emergency Specialist from UNICEF Suva Multi Country Office have also been deployed to Vanuatu.
The situation is compounded by the ongoing cyclone season, with three tropical cyclones anticipated in the region, posing additional risks to already vulnerable populations.