Lester Lowane, a 24-year-old university student from Vanuatu, shared his harrowing experience during last week’s devastating 7.3 magnitude earthquake. While out Christmas shopping with his mother, Lowane found himself trapped in a store as the ground shook violently around him.
As he described it, “In the first two seconds, there were already strong shakes.” Realizing the situation was dire, Lowane searched for an exit but found the first door locked. He and his mother attempted to escape through another door, but the tremors were too intense, and they ultimately could not reach safety before the building collapsed. Remarkably, a large cement post fell just centimeters from him as he and his mother fell to the ground.
Lester lost consciousness due to the falling debris, waking to discover blood on the concrete and a fractured jaw. He was initially unable to see clearly in the dim light but found his mother safe and unharmed, albeit unconscious and trapped beneath some clothes and debris.
After assessing his surroundings, Lowane realized he was in a small pocket of space and managed to reach his untouched phone. He made frantic calls for help, eventually reaching his cousin who initiated a rescue effort. Despite the chaotic aftermath, it took nearly 24 hours for search and rescue teams to reach them, cut through the rubble, and pull them to safety.
Lowane was taken to Vila Central Hospital, covered in concrete dust but grateful for his survival and the well-being of his mother and fellow survivor. While he has experienced fear and anxiety following the earthquake and its aftershocks, he is focusing on recovery. “I am just thankful to have escaped such a tragic event and I have my family around me supporting me,” he said.
Despite the ordeal, Lowane remains optimistic about his future, with plans to study Aviation Management next year on an Australian education scholarship. He took a moment during the interview to express gratitude to those who assisted in the rescue efforts, including local and international agencies.
Currently, Vanuatu faces ongoing challenges as recovery efforts continue post-earthquake. The government has reported 14 fatalities and over 2,000 individuals displaced, while infrastructure is gradually being restored. As the community rallies together, the message on local businesses is clear: “Stay strong and carry on Vanuatu.”
This sentiment captures the resilience and hope of the people of Vanuatu as they rebuild their lives after this disaster. The support and solidarity among the community, along with international assistance, offer a glimmer of hope for recovery and healing.
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