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.
News & Stories
Disaster Relief
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.
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
Oso landslide: A community rallies after deadly landslide
On March 22, 2014, the Oso landslide bearing up to 70 feet of mud buried a mile-long stretch of highway and took the lives of 43 people. Small communities around Oso, Washington, were left grieving while handling the monumental task of rebuilding.
Papua New Guinea landslide: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
Learn about the devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea’s Enga province, which has claimed 670 lives and buried an entire village under tons of debris. With more people feared dead and thousands displaced, authorities are warning of a second landslide and potential disease outbreaks. Discover key facts about the landslide and its causes and effects, and find ways to support survivors in this dire situation.
From the Field
Explore World Vision’s disaster responses
Armed conflict, natural disasters, and other emergencies can alter children’s lives drastically. When disaster strikes, World Vision’s disaster response helps safeguard children’s well-being by providing vital resources such as food, clean water, and shelter, as well as protection against trafficking and other forms of exploitation. With a presence in nearly 100 countries, we’re able to respond swiftly to global humanitarian emergencies, even in the most challenging environments — and we stay after immediate needs have been met to equip communities as they rebuild. Explore our interactive map showing some of the ways our staff around the world are supporting children affected by global crises.
From the Field
Tornadoes: Facts, FAQs, and how to help
Discover the power of tornadoes and the devastation their furious winds can cause. Learn important tornado facts and expert tips on how to prepare for these natural disasters in the United States.
From the Field
Lesser-known crises and World Vision’s impact
When it comes to disaster response, World Vision stands at the forefront, responding swiftly to crises, both major and lesser-known, that impact vulnerable communities globally. From aiding displaced children in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to supporting millions affected by Amazon droughts and helping families in Sri Lanka’s internal upheaval, our commitment extends beyond the headline-making disasters. With a presence in nearly 100 countries, we respond with life-saving essentials to all types of disasters and equip vulnerable children, families, and communities with long-term solutions.
From the Field
From disaster response to partnership for lasting change
As global disasters and humanitarian crises persist, World Vision’s support for vulnerable communities extends far beyond immediate disaster response. Discover how our interventions and programs have opened the doors to long-term partnership with communities and helped empower children and families worldwide.
Prayers
Matthew 25: Prayer for disaster survivors
God is with people suffering from disasters — families facing famine, conflict, or the aftermath of earthquakes, hurricanes, and tsunamis. Join us in prayer for all who find themselves as “strangers,” as Jesus calls them in Matthew 25:35.