Vanuatu earthquake: A nation in crisis highlights urgent need for community-based preparedness

By International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Vanuatu earthquake: A nation in crisis highlights urgent need for community-based preparedness

The island country of Vanuatu is reeling from the devastating impact of a 7.4 magnitude earthquake that has claimed at least 10 lives, leftover 200 injured, and caused widespread destruction across Efate Island, including the capital, Port Vila.

This disaster, compounded by aftershocks and resulting landslides, is a stark reminder of the growing vulnerabilities faced by Pacific nations in the face of natural and climate-induced hazards.

The earthquake has destroyed homes, schools, hospitals, and critical infrastructure. With communication lines and internet connectivity disrupted, response efforts have been severely hampered. Families are struggling to access safe drinking water, food, and medical care as the government and humanitarian agencies mobilize to address immediate needs.

The Vanuatu Red Cross Society (VRCS), supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), is working tirelessly to assist affected communities despite operational challenges, including damage to its facilities.

“The devastating impact of this earthquake is compounded by Vanuatu’s constant battle with natural hazards. We need to go beyond response—we need sustained investments in preparedness, early warning systems, and resilient infrastructure,” said Dickinson Tevi, Secretary General of the Vanuatu Red Cross Society.

The crisis in Vanuatu emphasises the need for increased support for disaster preparedness and resilience programs. Many Pacific countries like Vanuatu face recurring disasters that erode development gains and strain response capacities. While global discussions continue addressing vulnerabilities in disaster-prone regions, it is essential to prioritize investments in community-based response mechanisms – such as disaster-resistant housing and strengthening early warning systems. This investment is critical to saving lives and reducing the overall costs of humanitarian response.

“An earthquake of this magnitude means that the needs will be huge. IFRC is ready to provide support as we anticipate that the needs will be scaled up in the days and weeks ahead. We are working closely with the team at Vanuatu Red Cross Society to ascertain the needs on the ground and how best we can provide support in a timely and safe manner,” said Katie Greenwood, IFRC’s Head of Delegation for Asia Pacific.

Vanuatu’s urgent humanitarian needs

  • The immediate priorities in Vanuatu include:
  • Search and rescue operations to save lives.
  • Restoring communication and transportation infrastructure.
  • Providing emergency medical care, safe drinking water, and temporary shelters.
  • Supporting families to rebuild in a way that minimizes future disaster risks.Vanuatu’s resilience is tested time and again, yet its communities continue to demonstrate remarkable strength. The international community must now act decisively to support both the immediate response and the long-term preparedness needed to reduce the risks of future disasters. Preparedness is not a luxury; it is a life-saving investment. By acting now, IFRC can prevent future crises and build a safer, more sustainable future for vulnerable nations like Vanuatu.