One of the Pacific Ocean’s most powerful storms ever has ripped through Vanuatu. <br /><br /> Buildings have been damaged, trees uprooted and roads cut off. <br /><br /> Eight people are reported dead, but it is feared that number will rise substantially as the scale of devastation is established across the nation’s 83 islands. <br /><br /> Cyclone Pam, which it on Friday night, packed winds of up to 340 kilometres per hour.<br /><br /> It has left Vanuatu cut off and facing a looming threat of hunger.<br /><br /> The United Nations was preparing a major relief operation and Australia said it was ready to offer its neighbour whatever help it can.<br /><br /> Aid agencies said it is a disaster that needs an international response.
