Australia Deploys Teams to Vanuatu Following Second Earthquake in Pacific Nation
The tiny island nation of Vanuatu has experienced two earthquakes and multiple aftershocks, resulting in at least 14 reported deaths.
Australia is dispatching rescuers and medical teams to Vanuatu in response to the second earthquake within 24 hours, fearing a potential rise in the death toll.
An early morning magnitude 6.1 earthquake on Dec. 18 followed a 7.2 magnitude offshore earthquake on Dec. 17, triggering a tsunami warning to the Pacific Islands, which was later canceled.
A series of aftershocks have shaken Vanuatu’s islands, causing damage to buildings and vehicles.
Initial reports indicate around 14 fatalities, with several structures and vehicles flattened during the events.
Vanuatu’s national TV station reported at least 50 individuals sustaining injuries.
Related Stories
The official website of the Vanuatu government went offline during the disaster, resulting in significant damage to telecommunications and infrastructure.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles expressed concern about the situation in Port Villa following what he described as a “very significant earthquake.”
Marles mentioned that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had a conversation with Vanuatu Prime Minister Charlot Salwai.
“We’ll have a medical assistance team and a search and rescue team heading to Vanuatu later this morning on an Airforce C-17 and Airforce C-130, and we stand ready to offer any necessary assistance required by the Vanuatu government.
“This is undeniably a significant incident, and we are anxious about its unfolding.”
Marles confirmed that there have been no reports of serious injuries or casualties among Australians in Vanuatu.
In a joint statement with Acting Minister for International Development and the Pacific Matt Keogh, Foreign Minister Penny Wong expressed Australia’s readiness to provide as much assistance as needed.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to provide further aid to the people of Vanuatu as the extent of the damage becomes clear,” the statement read.
“Australia and Vanuatu have a strong and enduring partnership. We are family, and we will always be there in times of need.
“DFAT is aware of several Australians present in the affected region and is offering consular assistance to those who require it.”
