A devastating 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Port Vila, Vanuatu on Tuesday, causing widespread damage and leaving thousands without access to clean water. The disaster has overwhelmed the country's public health system, with aid agencies warning of a growing risk of waterborne diseases.
Red Cross volunteers assist staff with the clean-up at Vila central hospital in Port Vila, Vanuatu , following Tuesday’s earthquake. Tuesday’s quake destroyed two large water reservoirs, and aid agencies say lack of clean water and sanitation is becoming an urgent humanitarian need.
Vanuatu’s public health system risks being overwhelmed amid mounting waterborne disease, aid agencies have said, as a lack of clean water and patchy telecommunications service complicated rescue operations after Tuesday’s earthquake. The government’s disaster management office said early on Wednesday that 14 deaths had been confirmed, but hours later said nine had been verified by the main hospital. The number was expected to increase because people remain without water after two large reservoirs serving the capital, Port Vila, were totally decimated by the earthquake, the National Disaster Management Office said. Landslides and aftershocks exacerbated the damage to water infrastructure and increased the risk of disease, aid agencies said. Frantic rescue efforts were continuing around flattened buildings in Port Vila on Thursday after the quake hit on Tuesday afternoon with dozens working in dust and heat with little water to seek those yelling for help inside. The capital’s main medical facility, Vila Central hospital, was badly damaged and patients were moved to a military camp. Clement Chipokolo, Vanuatu country director at the Christian relief agency World Vision, said health care services, already strained before the quake, were overwhelmed. A handout photo made available by the Vanuatu Police Force shows rescue teams conducting search and rescue operations after a 7.3 magnitude earthquake in Port Vila
Earthquake Vanuatu Water Crisis Health Disaster Relief
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Vanuatu Earthquake: Australian Resident Recounts Terrifying ExperienceAn Australian resident living in Vanuatu for two decades, Mike Thompson, shares his harrowing account of the earthquake that struck the islands. He describes the chaos and destruction, the damage to his daughter's intended shopping destination, and the hope for international aid. Other residents also recount their experiences, describing shaking buildings, flying objects, and a sense of overwhelming shock.
Read more »
Australia Sends Aid to Vanuatu After Earthquake, Mid-Year Budget Update ReleasedThree Australian airforce transport planes are departing for Vanuatu to provide rescue and medical assistance following a deadly earthquake. The mid-year budget update reveals a projected improvement in the budget bottom line but confirms four consecutive deficits. Australia also prepares to defend its Rose Bowl title against New Zealand.
Read more »
Vanuatu Earthquake Devastates Port Vila, Aftershocks ContinueA powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu on Tuesday, causing widespread damage in the capital Port Vila. Aftershocks continue to rattle the region, with several tremors reported overnight. Communication outages and power disruptions are hampering rescue efforts. The US embassy building, housing diplomatic posts for several nations, sustained significant damage. While all US staff are reported safe, the full extent of casualties remains unknown.
Read more »
Australia Assists Vanuatu Earthquake ReliefFollowing a devastating 7.3 magnitude earthquake in Vanuatu, Australia provides immediate aid and support. Australian forces, medical teams, and aid workers are deployed to assist with rescue efforts and provide relief to the affected population.
Read more »
Vanuatu Earthquake Death Toll Rises Amid AftershocksA powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu, causing damage and injuries. International rescue efforts are underway as numerous aftershocks continue to shake the region.
Read more »
Vanuatu Earthquake Causes Widespread Damage and DeathsA powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu, causing significant damage to Port Vila, the capital city. Buildings collapsed, landslides occurred, and there are fears of rising casualties. One confirmed death has been reported, with many others feared injured or dead.
Read more »