In brief
A powerful earthquake struck Vanuatu, resulting in 14 fatalities and significant injuries as rescue teams scour the ruins. Many buildings were damaged, including embassies, prompting a state of emergency and international aid offers.
A 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck Vanuatu on Tuesday has increased the death toll to 14 as rescue teams work tirelessly to locate survivors among the rubble. In addition to the fatalities, around 200 individuals are receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the earthquake, which was accompanied by strong aftershocks throughout the night.The natural disaster caused widespread destruction, affecting key infrastructure including embassies from the US, UK, France, and New Zealand. Power outages and disrupted mobile services compounded the challenges facing the nation. In response, local authorities declared a seven-day state of emergency to regulate public movement while search and relief efforts are actively conducted.The government reported that four of the fatalities occurred in the capital city of Port Vila, with six people trapped under a landslide and another four victims trapped beneath a collapsed structure. Among the deceased were two Chinese nationals, as stated by Chinese Ambassador Li Minggang.The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs indicated that approximately 116,000 individuals may be severely impacted by the earthquake's aftermath. Australia has pledged to assist in the rescue efforts, and both the US and France are offering aid. Images shared on social media by Vanuatu Police depict teams laboring through debris, utilizing jackhammers and grinders to reach trapped individuals.Reports revealed that at least ten buildings in Port Vila incurred major structural damage. Residents have described hearing voices beneath the debris of collapsed buildings, intensifying efforts to reach those in peril. The earthquake, which struck precisely at 12:47 local time (01:47 GMT), also triggered an initial tsunami warning.Vanuatu, composed of about 80 islands, is anchored in a seismically active region, making it prone to frequent earthquakes and natural disasters. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, search and relief operations remain a top priority amid ongoing uncertainty.
