Vanuatu in State of Emergency as Earthquake Death Toll Rises

Following a catastrophic 7.3-magnitude earthquake in Vanuatu, the death toll has reached 14 while search and rescue teams strive to locate survivors amid damaging aftershocks and structural devastation.

A devastating earthquake struck Vanuatu on Tuesday, leading to a tragic death toll that has now risen to 14. Search and rescue teams are tirelessly working through debris in a desperate bid to find survivors following the violent 7.3-magnitude tremor. With around 200 people reported injured, authorities are grappling with the aftermath, which includes significant disruptions to power and mobile services.

The earthquake also wreaked havoc on buildings, notably damaging the embassies of the US, France, the UK, and New Zealand. In light of the ongoing crisis, Vanuatu police have declared a seven-day state of emergency to manage public movement as search and rescue operations unfold.

According to government reports, four fatalities occurred in hospitals located in the capital city of Port Vila, while six others lost their lives due to a landslide, and four were trapped in a collapsed structure. Among the deceased are two Chinese nationals, as confirmed by Chinese Ambassador to Vanuatu, Li Minggang. In total, the United Nations has estimated that approximately 116,000 people are likely to face severe effects from this calamity.

Aid is on the way, with neighboring Australia committing to send teams to support the active search efforts, as well as pledges of assistance from the US and France. Eyewitness accounts from Vanuatu Police showcase rescues in action, with search crews painstakingly sifting through rubble and maneuvering under collapsed structures.

Reports indicate that at least 10 buildings in Port Vila have suffered major structural damage, further complicating rescue missions. Rescuers have reported hearing survivors' voices from beneath the wreckage of a three-story building, prompting immediate efforts to gain access. Tools such as jackhammers and concrete saws are being utilized in hopes of bringing trapped individuals to safety.

Images circulating from Vanuatu state broadcaster VBTC depict a city in distress, with businesses shuttered, debris littering the roads, and residents desperately seeking essential supplies. The earthquake occurred at 12:47 PM local time, briefly triggering a tsunami warning. As a low-lying archipelago situated in a seismically active region, Vanuatu is particularly vulnerable to earthquakes and other natural disasters.