21 Dec 2024 | 06:29 AM UTC
Vanuatu: Airport to reopen Dec. 22 amid ongoing state of emergency, curfew following magnitude-7.3 offshore earthquake /update 6
State of emergency, curfew continue in Port Vila, Vanuatu, as of Dec. 22 after magnitude-7.3 earthquake. Significant disruptions persist.
An ongoing state of emergency and nightly 18:00-06:00 curfew will continue until at least Dec. 23 following a magnitude-7.3 offshore earthquake at around 12:47 Dec. 17. An extension of emergency measures is possible. Damage from the earthquake is affecting a third of the population, with Port Vila experiencing the greatest impact. The Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila, Vanuatu, will reopen for commercial flights from Dec. 22.
The International Federation of Red Cross Pacific has confirmed at least 19 fatalities, including Chinese, French, and Thai nationals, and 200 other casualties. The Australian military has repatriated 148 nationals. Several buildings have collapsed in Port Vila, including a compound hosting several foreign consulates; at least eight people remain trapped in a collapsed building. The structure of the Port Vila hospital building has been impacted, and crews have set up triage tents outside the hospital. An increase in the casualty figures and further reports of damage are likely as rescue efforts continue.
Landslides and other debris block several roads and bridges, preventing access to the main seaport and VLI. The port is closed. Additionally, police have cordoned off some roads and are asking the public to reduce vehicular movement to facilitate recovery works.
The country's two main water reservoirs are also damaged; water supply is resuming although authorities continue to advise boiling water before drinking. Crews have partially restored electricity, although banking operations may still remain affected. Basic mobile and internet messaging services have resumed for some people; however, connectivity remains unstable. Internet connection is available through Star Link, but damage to undersea cables will delay the full restoration of internet connectivity.
The earthquake's epicenter was in the Coral Sea, about 30 km (19 miles) west of Port Vila, at a depth of about 43 km (27 miles). Tsunami warnings were initially issued for coastal areas following the tremor but were rescinded within two hours. The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department continues to warn of rainfall-induced landslides and flash flooding.
At least 14 aftershocks have occurred since the initial earthquake. Aftershocks will likely continue over the coming days, and further shaking may cause additional damage to weakened structures and power and water supply infrastructure. Disruptions to road travel may persist for several days as officials repair and clear blocked routes.
Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Charge all communication and portable electronic devices when possible. Minimize nonessential water use throughout the outage. Use only bottled water from reputable suppliers for drinking and hygienic purposes. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.
