Many families in Nadi faced a challenging Christmas this year due to severe flooding that struck on Tuesday. Among them was Ulamila Waqavatu, who found herself celebrating the holiday with only rice and dhal at an evacuation center.
Ulamila and her family were among 62 individuals displaced by floodwaters in the Nawaka area. Having lived in Nawakalevu for over eight years, she recounted the sudden decision to evacuate. This year, the police took a more urgent approach, instructing residents to leave immediately rather than providing a typical alert to prepare for potential flooding.
Reflecting on the experience, Ulamila described being awoken early on Christmas morning while still in bed, with police urging them to evacuate. In a rush to escape, she left with not much more than the clothes on her back while water level rose to her waist.
The gravity of the situation overshadowed the holiday spirit, as Ulamila admitted they momentarily forgot it was Christmas. At the evacuation center, they had a simple meal of dhal and rice, which prompted a powerful realization. She expressed gratitude to God, emphasizing that the essence of Christmas lies not in lavish feasts but in the safety and love of family, stating, “Despite the situation we faced during this Christmas, we are so thankful to God that nobody had his or her life taken away.”
Ulamila, along with others affected, acknowledged the importance of taking police warnings seriously, noting that quick action and adherence to advice were crucial in their time of need.
Also affected was single mother Vasiti Vosawale, who described the flooding at Nawaijikuma Settlement as a complete Christmas disaster. The 62 evacuees took refuge in 12 classrooms at Andrews Primary School, which, along with two other centers in Nadi, provided shelter amid the crisis.
This story reflects resilience and gratitude in the face of adversity. While the circumstances might appear bleak, it’s a testament to the community’s strength and its spirit of togetherness during tough times.
In summary, Ulamila Waqavatu and her family, along with others impacted by the flooding, found themselves facing an unexpected and somber holiday. Yet, through their struggles, they identified the true essence of Christmas: safety, love, and community connection in the wake of natural disasters. This experience highlights the importance of preparing for emergencies and the value of support from both authorities and community members.
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