News & Stories

Natural Disasters

From the Field

Crisis worldwide: More refugees’ stories

According to UNHCR estimates, the number of forcibly displaced people worldwide exceeded 120 million in April 2024 — a historic high. Among those displaced, 40% are children. This alarming fact underscores the importance of prioritizing children’s needs amid displacement. We know that all children, including each of the approximately 47 million who are displaced, have inherent worth and God-given potential. Read about three kids currently experiencing displacement, and how they and their families exemplify resilience and unyielding spirit.

From the Field

2015 Cyclone Pam: Facts, FAQs, and how to help

On March 13, 2015, Category 5 Cyclone Pam unleashed heavy winds and rain on Vanuatu, a string of South Pacific islands. The storm devastated homes, schools, crops, and water systems, impacting more than half of the population in one of the world’s poorest countries. Learn how World Vision responded in emergency relief and recovery efforts to aid impacted communities.

From the Field

Hurricane Katrina: Facts, FAQs, and how to help

Explore the impact of Hurricane Katrina, one of the most devastating disasters in U.S. history. Twenty years later, Katrina remains a defining moment in the nation’s memory and a benchmark for emergency response. Discover the far-reaching consequences of this historic storm and how World Vision helped families recover and rebuild.

From the Field

Ecuador earthquake: Facts, FAQs, and how to help

A magnitude 7.8 earthquake rocked Ecuador’s coast April 16, 2016 — killing almost 700 people and leveling homes, schools, and infrastructure. The deadly Ecuador earthquake made life harder for people suffering from El Niño flooding. Recovery called for an all-out effort to support health, nutrition, education, and rebuilding.

From the Field

Maui wildfires: Facts, FAQs, and how to help

The destructive wildfires that swept through Maui in August 2023 have tragically resulted in loss of life, with a confirmed death toll of 102 people as of June 2024. The catastrophe has left thousands of Maui residents without homes and caused widespread destruction and damage to several areas of the island. Learn how World Vision is responding to the crisis and how you can support people affected by the disaster.