VANUATU (May 5, 2017) — CARE, the global poverty-fighting organization, is preparing an emergency response in Vanuatu as the Pacific nation braces for the strongest cyclone to hit the country since Cyclone Pam in 2015.
Tropical Cyclone Donna has already reached Vanuatu’s northern-most islands as a category three cyclone, bringing winds of up to 90 miles an hour, rough seas and torrential rain.
“With the predictions changing constantly, the entire country must be prepared,” said Megan Chisholm, CARE’s country director in Vanuatu. “We’re very concerned for families in the remote islands that are being, or are likely to be, affected by this strong storm.”
“Families in remote islands are particularly vulnerable – their homes are not built to withstand strong winds and rain and they are very hard to reach with warning messages. We are working closely with Vanuatu’s government and community disaster committees to make sure everyone is prepared. We know if families are warned and can prepare, lives will be saved,” she added.
CARE has been working in Vanuatu since 2008, helping communities prepare for natural disasters by providing basic first aid training, use of early warning systems, and training in what to do when a disaster hits.
As Cyclone Donna approaches, CARE is working alongside the Vanuatu government and other organizations and is set to respond with lifesaving support including food, water and shelter.
“At this stage, we’re preparing for the worst but hoping for the best,” added Ms. Chisholm.
Media Contact: Nicole Harris, nharris@care.org, 404-735-0871
About CARE: Founded in 1945, CARE is a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty. CARE has more than six decades of experience helping people prepare for disasters, providing lifesaving assistance when a crisis hits, and helping communities recover after the emergency has passed. CARE places special focus on women and children, who are often disproportionately affected by disasters. To learn more, visit www.care.org