Cyclone Pam appeals to help devastated Pacific nations
Last updated: 15/03/2015
International relief agencies have launched appeals to assist nations devastated by Cyclone Pam, as the relief effort begins.
Tropical Cyclone Pam was a category five cyclone when it struck the South Pacific from Wednesday, March 11. It was one of the strongest cyclones experienced within the region.
The United Nations says Tropical Cyclone Pam is likely to be the worst natural disaster the South Pacific has seen.
At least nine nations have experienced some level of devastation including Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Kiribati, Fiji, Tuvalu, and Papua New Guinea.
Oxfam relief workers said up to 90 per cent of Vanuatu's capital, Port Vila, had been seriously damaged and "entire communities have been blown away".
Australian Red Cross says its aid workers will focus on assisting communities with food supplies, shelter, water and sanitation to prevent disease outbreaks.
Save The Children says evacuation centres are packed, with agencies focussed on providing support, which may be needed for months as residents rebuild. Agencies are also raising money to assist the country to restore power, sewerage and water systems.
You can assist with donations to the aid agencies listed below to help with disaster relief and humanitarian support. They are members of the Australian Council of International Development (ACFID) and signatories to its code of conduct.
About ABC Appeals
The ABC has a proud track record of working with aid agencies during crises and humanitarian aid appeals.