Vanuatu Earthquake Toll Rises to 14 Amid Ongoing Rescue Operations

The earthquake in Vanuatu has claimed 14 lives, with rescue efforts ongoing as teams search through rubble. A state of emergency has been declared, with significant damage reported to critical infrastructure. The UN estimates that 116,000 people may be affected, and neighboring countries are providing assistance to relief efforts.

The death toll following the catastrophic earthquake that struck Vanuatu on Tuesday has tragically increased to 14. Rescue operations continue vigorously as teams meticulously search for survivors amidst the rubble. The U.S., France, the UK, and New Zealand embassies suffered significant damage, and the earthquake disrupted power and telecommunications across the area. In response, Vanuatu’s authorities have instituted a seven-day state of emergency to facilitate organized search and relief operations. Out of the fatalities, four victims succumbed in a Port Vila hospital, while the others were attributed to landslides and collapsing structures. Notably, two of the deceased were identified as Chinese nationals, as confirmed by the Chinese Ambassador to Vanuatu, Li Minggang.

The United Nations estimates that approximately 116,000 residents may face severe consequences from the quake. In an effort to support ongoing operations, neighbouring Australia has pledged assistance, as have the United States and France. Images shared on social media depict rescue teams actively sifting through debris and assessing structural damage, with major portions of the capital, Port Vila, severely affected. Witness accounts indicate that rescuers reported hearing voices from within collapsed buildings, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The earthquake occurred at 12:47 local time, triggering a brief tsunami warning in the region, which is renowned for its seismic activity.

Vanuatu, comprised of around 80 islands in the South Pacific, faces frequent natural disasters due to its geographical location. The scope of damage from this earthquake continues to unfold, with estimates indicating significant impacts on local infrastructure and the economy as businesses work to resume operations amidst the ongoing crisis.

Vanuatu is a nation located in a seismically active zone of the South Pacific, frequently experiencing earthquakes and other natural calamities. This location makes the region particularly vulnerable, as it has faced numerous disasters in the past. The recent earthquake, which struck on a Tuesday afternoon, reaffirmed the nation’s susceptibility to such events. With emergency protocols activated, authorities are focusing on maximizing search and rescue efforts. The involvement of international aid underscores the severity of the situation and the humanitarian response required to assist the affected population.

In conclusion, the recent earthquake in Vanuatu has led to a tragic loss of life, with 14 confirmed fatalities and severe infrastructural damage impacting a significant portion of the population. Emergency protocols are essential in facilitating rescue operations, with international support being integral to these efforts. As recovery continues, the focus remains on providing assistance and ensuring the safety of those affected in this vulnerable region.

Original Source: news.az