Vanuatu experienced a second significant earthquake on Sunday, just days after hundreds of Australians were evacuated and the Australian government announced an additional $5 million in aid to support recovery efforts.
The magnitude 6.1 earthquake hit the island nation's capital, Port Vila, at 2:30 a.m., striking 30 kilometers west of the city. Unlike the initial 7.3-magnitude earthquake on Tuesday, which triggered tsunami alerts, the latest quake caused no such warnings.
In the wake of the disaster, two Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) flights carrying 144 passengers landed in Brisbane on Sunday, bringing the total number of evacuees to 568 since Wednesday. These flights also delivered essential humanitarian supplies to the devastated region.
Vanuatu's Airports Authority reopened Port Vila International Airport to commercial flights on Sunday, providing a glimmer of hope for increased aid and recovery efforts. Australian carriers Qantas and Virgin resumed flights to Brisbane on Sunday, while Jetstar is set to operate a service on Monday.
Two additional Australian Defence Force (ADF) flights are planned to complete the evacuation process and deliver further relief supplies.
Tuesday's catastrophic 7.3-magnitude earthquake left a trail of devastation, with at least 16 confirmed fatalities, over 200 injuries, and widespread destruction in Port Vila and surrounding areas. Officials warn that the death toll may rise as search and rescue operations continue.
The humanitarian crisis is deepening, with approximately 20,000 residents unable to access clean water. Aid workers fear a potential outbreak of illnesses due to the water crisis, as the extent of damage to Port Vila’s water infrastructure remains unclear.
Unicef specialist Brecht Mommen expressed concerns over the deteriorating health conditions, emphasizing the urgent need for repairs to water and sanitation systems.
The latest RAAF flights delivered 9.5 tonnes of emergency supplies, including provisions from the Red Cross, UN World Food Program, CARE, Save the Children, and World Vision. The United Nations estimates that around 1,000 people have been displaced.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong announced an additional $5 million in humanitarian aid to assist Vanuatu's recovery. This funding will support emergency relief, including access to clean water, sanitation, shelter, and other critical needs.
As Vanuatu grapples with the aftermath of two earthquakes, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, with ongoing efforts to provide relief and rebuild the island nation's vital infrastructure.
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