A devastating magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, on Tuesday, leaving residents without water and hundreds trapped in rubble. The disaster has claimed at least 14 confirmed deaths, with the number expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.
The quake destroyed two large reservoirs serving the capital, crippling the country’s water supply. Residents are struggling to access clean drinking water, with queues forming outside stores that sell bottled water. Children are being affected, with a rise in diarrhea reported among kids who may have drunk tainted water.
Rescue teams are working tirelessly to reach trapped survivors, but the lack of water and telecommunications is hindering their efforts. The government has declared an emergency, with aid agencies scrambling to respond. Military forces from Australia and New Zealand are expected to arrive soon, bringing search and rescue personnel and equipment.
The quake also damaged critical infrastructure, including a building housing diplomatic missions and the seaport. A tsunami warning was issued but later called off as dozens of aftershocks continued to rattle the country. The Asia-Pacific Red Cross head has warned that the situation will worsen, with “anecdotal information” suggesting more deaths may be reported.
As the nation struggles to recover, officials are urging residents to boil water before consumption and to report any signs of distress. The international community is offering support, but the road to recovery will be long and challenging for this Pacific island nation.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2024/12/18/world/vanuatu-earthquake-search-water-intl-hnk/index.html