Vanuatu earthquake: NZDF evacuates 93 people; The death toll remains unclear

Defense Minister Judith Collins said she was “proud” of her personnel.

Many thanks to the NZDefenceForce staff working with MFAT and Emergency Management to get people into and evacuated from Vanuatu, to get much needed equipment. Your minister is proud of you. https://t.co/jZVh5tCpgA

— Judith Collins (@JudithCollinsMP) December 19, 2024

A 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck the island nation on Tuesday, followed by a 6.1-magnitude earthquake on Wednesday and several other aftershocks, causing severe damage to multi-storey buildings.

At least 14 people were confirmed dead and about 200 others injured.

Rescue operations in Port Vila following the earthquake.

The death toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.

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New Zealand joins Australia and France on the ground to provide assistance in Vanuatu. According to ABC, rescue teams have recovered seven survivors from under the rubble so far.

On Wednesday, a New Zealand Defense Force aircraft carrying urgently needed personnel and rescue equipment was forced to divert to New Caledonia after an engine fire warning.

Relief supplies are delivered to Vanuatu and New Zealanders are repatriated. @JudithCollinsMP @NZDefenceForce @MFATNZ

🇻🇺 🤝 🇳🇿 https://t.co/Gi4YKGUblx pic.twitter.com/OvImM76dDX

— Winston Peters (@NewZealandMFA) December 19, 2024

New Zealand Fire and Emergency Services has announced it will send 34 US personnel to the Vanuatu capital to support the disaster response.

“Their focus will be on conducting urban search and rescue operations in support of the local emergency management agency,” National Commander Russell Wood said.

The team was prepared to stay in Vanuatu for up to 14 days.

The New Zealand Defense Force evacuated approximately 100 people. Photo/New Zealand Defense Forces

The New Zealand Red Cross has launched an appeal to support those affected by the earthquake and subsequent aftershocks, with donations to support teams on the ground providing emergency relief.

“We know how generous and compassionate New Zealanders are and we hope this appeal provides people with a way to send tangible support to the tens of thousands of people in Vanuatu tragically affected by this disaster,” New Zealand Red Cross Secretary-General Sarah Stewart-Black said.

On Tuesday, President Nikinike Voruparavo declared a state of emergency for a week. Police urged people to adhere to the strict curfew from 6pm to 6am.

Police also warned residents that there was a greater chance of opportunistic crimes occurring in the wake of the disaster.

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