Vanuatu hit by two tropical cyclones, Judy and Kevin, and an earthquake

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Highlights

• Vanuatu has been hit by two tropical cyclones, Judy (on March 1st) and Kevin (on March 3rd-4th), and an earthquake (on March 3rd) measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale.

• According to the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), a total of 148,981 people (46% of the total population) have been affected by the cyclones at Category 3 and 4, with 29,794 households impacted, including an estimated 58,000 children under 15.

• 251,346 persons impacted by cyclone winds Category 2 to 3, including an estimated 100,000 children under 15.

• 100% of population were impacted by wind more than 60km/h.

• Some of the worst-affected provinces are Shefa, Penama, and Malapa.

• The NDMO has warned residents not to use river water for cooking and drinking due to contamination caused by the cyclones.

• Many schools and healthcare facilities have been affected, with considerable damage reported, including to the airport.

UNICEF Response

• UNICEF has partnered with the Vanuatu Red Cross Society to distribute emergency supplies to affected communities. The distribution of these supplies begins immediately and will continue the coming days.

• In addition, UNICEF is shipping more supplies from Fiji to support the response efforts.

• UNICEF has 16 staff members in Vanuatu to provide support in needs assessments, delivery of supplies, and providing first relief to the affected population in close coordination with the NDMO.

Situation

Vanuatu has been hit by two tropical cyclones, Judy and Kevin, and an earthquake measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale. According to the National Disaster Management Office, the impact has been significant, with almost 150,000 people affected, including more than 58,000 children and nearly 30,000 households impacted. The worst-affected provinces are Shefa, Penama, and Malapa. The situation has resulted in urgent humanitarian needs that require immediate attention. Access to safe water is a critical need as no running water is available in the main affected areas. Education and healthcare have also been severely impacted, with schools remaining closed and some healthcare facilities damaged. The distribution of emergency supplies has begun, UNICEF in partnership with the Vanuatu Red Cross Society. Children affected by the disaster could require access to psychological support and a protective environment to mitigate the impact of trauma and reduce the risk of violence, abuse, and exploitation. As of now, there is no information available on the extent of the damage caused by the earthquake, highlighting the urgent need for assessments to better understand the needs of affected communities. Electrical power has not yet been restored to the capital Port Vila.

Vanuatu hit by two tropical cyclones, Judy and Kevin, and an earthquake
Source: Philippines Legacy PH