In 2024, tens of millions of people worldwide faced extreme challenges. Floods devastated communities, landslides destroyed villages, and wars and conflict exacerbated suffering, hunger, and poverty. Learn about the top disasters, their global impact, and how World Vision is making a difference in vulnerable communities.
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Special Features
From destruction to hope: 20 years after the Indian Ocean tsunami
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
From the Field
Global poverty: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
Poverty remains one of the most pressing challenges in our world, with nearly 9% of the global population living on less than $3.00 per day. Read to find answers to your questions about poverty, learn about how we define poverty, find out what World Vision is doing to help end extreme poverty worldwide, and learn how you can help.