IsraAID Vanuatu marks ten years since Cyclone Pam

Today marks a decade since Cyclone Pam, one of the most devastating natural disasters to ever strike the Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu. As we reflect on this solemn anniversary, we honor those who lost their lives, homes, and livelihoods, while celebrating the extraordinary resilience and strength demonstrated by the people of Vanuatu in the face of unprecedented adversity.

On March 13, 2015, Cyclone Pam made landfall as a Category 5 storm, bringing winds of up to 280 kilometers per hour and leaving a path of destruction across the archipelago. The cyclone affected more than 70% of the population, damaged or destroyed approximately 90% of structures in the hardest-hit areas, and caused widespread devastation to infrastructure, crops, and essential services.

“Ten years on, we remember the profound loss experienced by so many families across our islands,” said Gayle Deighton, Country Director. “Yet today is also about acknowledging the remarkable journey of recovery and renewal that showcases the true spirit of Ni-Vanuatu. The story of Vanuatu since Cyclone Pam is one of community strength, determination, and hope.”

Our organisation responded immediately in the aftermath of Cyclone Pam, providing crucial Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) to affected communities across all provinces. We conducted specialised training for local clinicians and community leaders, equipping them with the skills to address trauma and support emotional recovery. Additionally, we rehabilitated and restored vital water systems to communities whose infrastructure had been severely damaged or destroyed.

In the decade since the disaster, we have maintained our commitment to the people of Vanuatu through continued support in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Protection and Nutrition programs. These ongoing initiatives have helped strengthen community resilience and improve quality of life across the islands.

During this same period, Vanuatu has not only rebuilt but has emerged as a global leader in climate resilience and disaster preparedness. Communities have developed innovative local solutions for climate adaptation, traditional knowledge has been integrated with modern disaster risk reduction strategies, and Vanuatu has become a powerful voice on the international stage advocating for climate justice.

This anniversary serves as both a solemn reminder of the devastation caused by the cyclone and a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey of recovery and resilience that has followed, highlighting the nation’s commitment to building a safer, more resilient future.

“The response to Cyclone Pam revealed the extraordinary compassion and solidarity within Vanuatu’s communities,” said Jeanine Shem, Program Manager at IsraAID. “Neighbours helped neighbours, islands supported islands, and our global teams were privileged to work alongside these resilient communities. Today, we honour not just what was lost, but what we found in each other—an unbreakable spirit and the knowledge that together, we can overcome even the most difficult challenges.”

As climate change continues to pose increased risks to Pacific Island nations, IsraAID remains committed to working with the Vanuatu Government and Communities to building on the lessons learned from Cyclone Pam, strengthening disaster preparedness systems, and leading conversations on climate resilience.

-ENDS-

CONTACT:

Gayle Deighton

Country Director – Vanuatu

Email:  [email protected]

Shachar May

Press Officer

Email: [email protected]

Notes:

IsraAID is a leading international humanitarian non-governmental organization, based in Israel. Since 2001, IsraAID has become synonymous with a rapid response to humanitarian crises and a long-term commitment to working with affected communities. During and after emergencies, IsraAID partners with communities to re-build their lives – and their futures – together. As of December 2024, IsraAID has responded to more than 100 emergencies, in more than 65 countries.