Destruction in Vanuatu: Aftershocks Complicate Rescue Efforts

In Vanuatu, rescue operations continue after the devastating earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4. The quake hit the capital, Port Vila, and claimed at least 14 lives. Additionally, two water reservoirs, several foreign embassies, and a hospital were damaged. Around 200 people are currently being treated at the capital's main hospital. The government of Vanuatu confirmed the casualty figures, a Red Cross representative shared on X. Katie Greenwood, Head of the Pacific Delegation at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, emphasized the need to free those trapped and address the urgent need for first aid, shelter, and water. Numerous aftershocks shook the region during the night, including another strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.1. The German Research Centre for Geosciences reported that this occurred at a depth of 10 km. Angela Bird, who runs a resort in Port Vila, described the situation as almost countless aftershocks and stated that further tremors were felt in the early morning hours. Videos from the national broadcaster VBTC showed destroyed roads and vehicles under debris. Even nearby shipping terminals were affected by landslides. Acting Prime Minister Charlot Salwai declared a state of emergency for the hardest-hit areas and imposed a week-long curfew. International aid is being requested, while Australia and New Zealand are already making preparations to provide assistance. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimates that about a third of Vanuatu's population is affected by the earthquake. Personal stories, such as that of Mike Thompson, who helped rescue people from the rubble during the night, highlight the urgency of the situation.