Vanuatu Earthquake: Death Toll Rises to 14, What Is the Condition of Indonesian Citizens in the Area?

Kapanlagi.com - A powerful earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale struck Vanuatu on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, leaving a significant trail of destruction in the capital, Port Vila, and its surroundings. According to reports from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter of the earthquake was located about 30 kilometers off the coast of Efate at a depth of 57 kilometers.

This strong tremor not only damaged infrastructure but also resulted in a rising death toll. As of this report, at least 14 people have been reported dead and around 200 others injured.

The situation worsened with the disruption of communication networks, hampering rescue efforts. Amid these difficulties, neighboring countries have begun sending aid to help Vanuatu recover from the disaster.

This event serves as a poignant reminder of Vanuatu's vulnerability to natural disasters. Located on the seismic Ring of Fire, the country frequently faces earthquakes, tsunamis, and tropical storms. This time, the impact has been so great that it requires serious attention for long-term recovery.

1. Chronology of the Earthquake and Its Impact

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale shook Vanuatu, centered just 30 kilometers from Port Vila, and rocked the ground for 30 tense seconds.

As a result, landslides occurred at various points, including blocking the main road connecting Port Vila with other areas, and even a bus was trapped under the debris, adding to the list of casualties.

Two main bridges also collapsed, hindering evacuation and the mobility of panicked residents. The next day, a 5.5 magnitude aftershock struck again, making already damaged buildings even more vulnerable, while residents struggled to find safe places.

As of this report, at least 14 lives have been lost and around 200 people injured, as reported by the Vanuatu government through Greenwood on X, as quoted by ANTARA.

2. Conditions in Port Vila Post-Earthquake

Port Vila, the heart of Vanuatu's government and economy, is now in deep pain after suffering severe damage. The once magnificent concrete building, home to diplomatic missions, is now in ruins, with only the top three floors remaining, though they are on the verge of collapse.

"The building is now almost flattened," said Michael Thompson, a resident who witnessed the destruction before his eyes.

Video footage shows debris scattered across the streets, while rescue teams are struggling hard to evacuate victims amidst communication difficulties.

A tsunami warning loomed, threatening waves of up to one meter, but was eventually lifted, offering a glimmer of hope for the panicked residents.

3. International Aid Begins to Arrive

Various countries quickly sprang into action to respond to this disaster. Australia did not remain idle, deploying medical teams and urban search and rescue units to assist those affected.

New Zealand was equally swift, sending military aircraft to assess the damage, demonstrating high solidarity and concern in the midst of this emergency situation.

4. Conditions of Indonesian Citizens and Foreigners in Vanuatu

In a tense situation, the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hartyo Harkomoyo, revealed that there are 48 Indonesian citizens (WNI) in Vanuatu, the majority of whom are crew members. Unfortunately, efforts to communicate with them have hit a dead end.

"Until now, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the Indonesian Embassy in Canberra continues to try to contact WNI, diaspora, and colleagues there, including officials and contact points in Vanuatu, but all those contacts have not been successfully reached," explained Hartyo in a statement released by Lifestyle Liputan6.com, Tuesday (17/12/2024).

On the other hand, the New Zealand government reported that 58 of its citizens are also trapped in Vanuatu. Although there have been no reports of casualties from their side, severe damage to infrastructure has made monitoring the situation very difficult.

The building that serves as the headquarters for the diplomatic missions of various countries, including New Zealand and France, is one of the locations most severely affected. Evacuation teams are working hard to ensure the safety of the trapped staff.

5. Vanuatu and Natural Disaster Risks

Vanuatu, located in the seismic Ring of Fire, continues to struggle with the threat of recurring natural disasters, ranging from shaking earthquakes, devastating tsunamis, to raging tropical storms.

In the World Risk Report, this country is noted as one of the most vulnerable to disasters, and recent events have only added to the long list of challenges faced by its inhabitants.

In addition to the concerning material losses, the psychological impact experienced by the community is equally serious, making the recovery process, which is expected to take years, a long journey filled with hope and challenges.

6. Why does Vanuatu frequently experience earthquakes?

Vanuatu, a tropical paradise located in the heart of the Pacific Ring of Fire, is an alluring area with its natural beauty, but it is also marked by impressive geological dynamics.

7. What is the biggest impact of the earthquake in Vanuatu?

The earthquake that shook the region has caused concerning impacts, ranging from severe damage to infrastructure, loss of life, to serious disruptions in communication systems that make the situation even more difficult.

8. How are other countries helping Vanuatu?

Australia and New Zealand promptly deployed medical and logistical aid, as well as sending search and rescue teams to provide support to those in need.

9. Did the Vanuatu earthquake affect Indonesia?

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed that the earthquake that shook Vanuatu has no direct impact on Indonesian territory, so the public does not need to worry about the effects of the disaster.

(kpl/rmt)