A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck Vanuatu on Tuesday 17 December, followed by a magnitude 5.5 aftershock.
The epicentre was 31 km from the capital of Port Vila, causing landslides and widespread service disruptions. One fatality has reportedly been confirmed, and at least 71,000 people are estimated to be affected.
CARE’s office in Port Villa has sustained damage and landlines have been cut. Staff report that many large buildings have collapsed in Port Villa, electricity and water services are down, and telecommunications across the country have been impacted. CARE’s staff in Port Villa and a field office in Tanna were asked to move to higher ground amid tsunami warnings, but these have since been cancelled pending impact of aftershocks.
CARE in Vanuatu is conducting rapid needs assessments and will continue to provide updates as and when more information becomes available. CARE stands ready to assist in recovery efforts.
CARE International has been present in Vanuatu since 2008, working with communities to build resilience to disasters and climate shocks and increase women and girls’ involvement in community and national leadership.
Media enquiries
For all media enquiries please contact Carey Ellis: ellis@careinternational.org
