'Unbelievable destruction' reported in Tropical Cyclone Pam's wake

CNN

Story highlights
Red Cross says Tropical Cyclone Pam destroyed many homes
UNICEF tweets there are reports of devastation in Vanuatu's capital
Storm has made a direct hit on the capital of Vanuatu, Port Vila

(CNN)

Relief workers reported "unbelievable destruction" after Tropical Cyclone Pam smashed the capital of Vanuatu, the Australian Red Cross said Saturday.

The Australian Red Cross said via Twitter that "humanitarian needs will be enormous. Many people have lost their homes. Shelter, food and water (are) urgent priorities" in Port Vila.

Meteorologists said the storm has weakened some, but it was still pounding the islands after hours of fierce winds and torrential rain.

"#CyclonePam still tearing through #Vanuatu. 'Much bigger than expected,' says our colleague in Port Vila. Initial reports of devastation," the Australian branch of UNICEF said on Twitter earlier.

Pam, one of the strongest storms seen in the South Pacific in years, earlier made a direct hit on the capital, raising fears of mass destruction.