WELLINGTON – Vanuatu, a group of islands in the South Pacific, is known for its beauty and its role in World War II as an American military base. This week, though, it became the scene of a devastating tragedy.
A 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck, leaving at least 14 people dead, over 200 injured, and many still unaccounted for. The destruction is overwhelming, but the locals’ resilience and international aid are starting to bring hope.
A Jacksonville man described to News4JAX what it was like when the earthquake hit.
Related: 14 dead and hundreds injured in magnitude 7.3 quake in Vanuatu. Some people are trapped in rubble
“There was no warning or anything,” Alex Pippins, who was in Vanuatu doing construction work at the time of the earthquake, said. “I was actually driving my car over a bridge when it happened, and it felt like I popped my back left tire.”
Pippins and his construction team jumped in to help wherever they could, from moving supplies to clearing roads. Still, challenges remain with roads blocked and buildings reduced to rubble.
“We’re thankful that the Australians are starting to fly in a bunch of supplies,” Pippins said, but he knows more help is urgently needed.
One of Pippins' work friends was also nearby when the deadly earthquake hit.
“A work buddy of mine who was actually downtown said a few people died in one of the main stores there,” Pippins shared.
Stories like these highlight the human cost of the disaster.
Rescue teams are still working around the clock to find survivors, digging through the debris while aid pours in. Australia has been leading the charge, sending military aircraft loaded with food, water, and medical supplies. The Pacific Humanitarian Team is also coordinating relief efforts as rescuers race against time.
For Pippins, leaving the island isn’t easy. The damage to the airport has grounded flights.
“They’re saying [flights] might be back on Saturday, maybe Sunday,” he said.
As Vanuatu begins to rebuild, the outpouring of international support and the strength of its people offer some hope.