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SITUATION OVERVIEW
On 17 December 2024, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck 30 kilometres west of Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu, causing widespread destruction and creating significant humanitarian needs.1 The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of 57 km, triggered landslides and extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and essential services (PHT – Pacific Humanitarian Team Update 1). This was followed by several aftershocks, with magnitudes of 5.5, 4.7, and 4.9, further exacerbating the situation (https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/map).
Preliminary reports published on 17 December from the Pacific Disaster Centre (PDC) suggest that approximately 116,000 people may have been affected initially, representing 40 per cent of the population, including 73,000 who experienced severe shaking, with the worst impacts concentrated in Port Vila.
The disaster severely disrupted telecommunications, power supply, and water reservoirs leaving many areas without internet or phone services, electricity, and running water. The structural integrity of several key buildings, such as the main hospital and local schools, have been severely compromised. The main airstrip also sustained damage, restricting commercial flights though permitting limited humanitarian operations.
Several buildings in Port Vila’s central business district have collapsed, raising fears for those still trapped in the rubble. This area has been designated a Red Zone and is closed to the public. Additionally, several bridges around Port Vila that connect roads and villages have been damaged, limiting access, while some roads have been blocked by debris from landslides.
USGS data confirms that a total of 73,000 people experienced severe shaking, including 36,000 in Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu, as outlined in the table.
responses. The NEOC is currently operating out of tents set up in the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO)’s car park due to concerns about the building’s structural integrity, while search and rescue teams are working tirelessly to reach those trapped under rubble. Health services are overwhelmed due to damaged medical infrastructure, which creates an urgent need for medical supplies, clean water, shelter, and essential household items.
The seaport facility, where most commodities arrive in Port Villa, is still functioning; however, access roads have been damaged by landslides. The airport’s communication and control tower have also been impacted, suspending commercial flights pending the completion of repairs.
The government has enforced a curfew from 6 PM to 6 AM for the duration of the State of Emergency and requested additional police support from assisting states to help maintain peace and security.
The Vanuatu Red Cross Society (VRCS), supported by the IFRC and its membership, has mobilised volunteers to provide immediate assistance, including health support, assessments, and emergency supplies. However, access challenges and damaged facilities are hindering their ability to scale-up operations. The situation remains critical, with urgent support needed to meet the immediate needs of the affected population and facilitate early recovery efforts.