The UN is also responding to the earthquake that struck the Pacific Island nation of Vanuatu on Tuesday, killing 14 people and injuring more than 200 others, according to authorities.
Humanitarians said the situation remains concerning, and a state of emergency has been declared for seven days.
Dujarric said the Government has requested international assistance to complement the national response, and the UN and partners are mobilising resources.
UN humanitarian affairs office, OCHA, is deploying response teams to the area, which includes a UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team
“According to local authorities, damage is extensive and includes hospitals, residential and public buildings, roads, water reservoirs and gas pipes. Many communities have been cut off,” he said.
He listed the immediate needs, which include medical supplies and repair to medical structures, mobile medical teams, search and rescue teams with heavy machinery for clearing, as well as safe drinking water.
