PORT VILA, Vanuatu, Dec 18, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - The toll from a powerful
earthquake that flattened buildings in Pacific nation Vanuatu is now nine
dead -- a figure that is likely to rise, the government said Wednesday.

There are "9 confirmed deaths by Vila Central Hospital", said the latest
written update by the national disaster management office, adding that the
number was expected to increase.

The figure was lower than the previous day's confirmed total of at least 14
dead, given by the same office.

A government spokesperson did not explain the reason for the change.

Vanuatu has declared a seven-day state of emergency, the spokesperson said,
along with an overnight curfew from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am.