UNICEF reports 54, 000 children hit by cyclone in Vanuatu
(AGI) Rome, March 14 - At least half of the population of theSouth Pacific island of Vanuatu, including at least 54,000children, is estimated to have been affected by cyclone Pam.The cyclone destroyed many houses, especially those built withlocal natural materials and thatched roofs, as they are morevulnerable to strong winds and flooding, reported UNICEF in acommunique' released on Saturday. "Schools, churches andcommunity halls are being used as emergency shelters. Many ofthese buildings are likely have suffered structural damage.Lifeline facilities like hospitals, electrical utilities, watersupply and telephone systems are most likely