Caritas Australia launches Vanuatu earthquake appeal

At least 14 people have been killed in Vanuatu following two earthquakes in 24 hours, affecting an estimated 116,000 people.

Hundreds of people are injured or trapped following the collapse of buildings resulting from successive 7.4 and 6.1 magnitude earthquakes. As rescue efforts continue, the death toll is expected to rise. The Port Vila hospital has been overwhelmed, having also sustained damage resulting in the closure of operating theatres.

Two major water reserves that supply Port Vila have also been destroyed, with assessment of water supplies ongoing.The earthquakes have caused major damage to infrastructure, affecting communications, airport runways, bridges—including the Tagabe, Teouma and Black Sand bridges—and the main port.

As part of the Church Agencies Network Disaster Operations (CANDO), Caritas Australia will be providing support on the ground through its partners. These partners are assessing the situation and are ready to respond to the humanitarian requirements, which are likely to include emergency shelter, food and other essentials, as well as psychosocial support.

Many are fearing further disaster, as Vanuatu is one of the most susceptible countries to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis.

Sally Thomas, Humanitarian Manager at Caritas Australia, said, ‘Vanuatu, and particularly Port Vila, has been devastated. People are now trying to recover and perform rescues with damage to infrastructure such as bridges, telecommunications, water supplies and the local hospital.

‘Many are fearing further disaster, as Vanuatu is one of the most susceptible countries to natural disasters such as earthquakes, storm damage, flooding and tsunamis. These disasters are unfortunately most common at this time of year, when many of us are celebrating and enjoying a break.

‘As we embrace the festivities, we must remember our brothers and sisters in Vanuatu, who need our compassion and support as they recover.’