Vanuatu: Tropical Cyclones Judy & Kevin: Situation Report No.1 (As of 10 March 2023)

This report is produced by OCHA Office of the Pacific Islands in collaboration with humanitarian partners under the Pacific Humanitarian Team. It covers the period from 01 to 10 March 2023

HIGHLIGHTS

• Tropical cyclones JUDY and KEVIN (both of Cat4 intensity) made landfall over Vanuatu on the 1st and 3rd March.

• On 2nd of March, national authorities declared a State of Emergency over parts of the country which was extended to the entire country on 5th of March.

• On the 3rd of March, earthquakes of 6.6 and 5.4 magnitude were detected off the Island of Espiritu Santo at 5am VUT. No Tsunami warning was issued, and no casualties reported.

• The National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) in Port Vila indicates that 251,346 people are affected by the cyclones (about 80 per cent of the population) and 30,000 households.

• NDMO’s Planning Team and technical advisors identified four priority areas based on TC Kevin intensity and the affected areas in the provinces: 1st: Shefa and Tafea; 2nd: Penama and Malampa; 3rd Northern part of Penama Province & Western part of Malampa Province; 4th: Sanma.

• Damage assessments are ongoing; on the 9th of March, Vanuatu’s Prime Minister announced that the initial estimate of the recovery cost is estimated at 6 billion Ni-Vanuatu Vatu (approx. USD 50m); however, full assessments still have to be concluded.

• Current priorities identified by national authorities are related to: restoration of power, re-establishment of communication and transport systems, and shelter.

• Multi-sectoral assessments to evaluate the needs are ongoing, led by national clusters and coordinated by NDMO.

• Distribution of relief items has started, supported by local partners and NGOs.