In 2004, a massive undersea earthquake off the coast of northern Sumatra, Indonesia, triggered colossal tsunamis that inundated coastal areas across the region, catching communities off-guard and causing widespread destruction. One of the most devastating natural disasters in recorded history, the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami impacted multiple countries and claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. Read about how World Vision responded and our ongoing efforts in the region.
News & Stories
News
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
Middle East: Children endure devastating impacts from crisis
Children in the Middle East are enduring the devastating impacts of armed violence, hunger, psychosocial distress, and disrupted education. Learn how World Vision is supporting affected communities and remains committed to serving the most vulnerable children and families, even in the most dangerous places.
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
2018 Indonesia quakes and tsunamis: Facts, FAQs, how to help
Discover key facts about the 2018 Indonesia earthquakes and tsunamis, including six events with magnitude 6.0 or higher. Learn more about the devastating impact on millions of people, and how World Vision swiftly responded with lifesaving supplies to help affected communities.
From the Field
Zika virus: Facts, symptoms, and how to help
Discover essential information about the mosquito-borne Zika virus, including the symptoms, prevention, and the significant 2015–2016 outbreak. Learn how Zika can cause serious birth defects like microcephaly. And find out the latest update on Zika.
From the Field
Afghanistan crisis: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
Children and families in Afghanistan are facing a growing humanitarian crisis, the result of decades of conflict, chronic poverty, and natural disasters. Learn how World Vision is responding — and how you can support families caught up in the crisis.
Mpox outbreak: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
The World Health Organization declared a global health emergency due to an mpox outbreak in over a dozen African countries, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) reporting over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths in 2024. Learn more about what mpox is, which groups are most affected, and how World Vision is responding.
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.
Floods: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
In 2024, deadly floods in Afghanistan, Brazil, and Kenya have wreaked havoc on communities, destroying homes and livelihoods. These disasters have resulted in numerous fatalities, increased suffering, and heightened risks of waterborne diseases like cholera. Discover how floods affect regions worldwide, learn about their causes and effects, and find out how to support survivors.