Litia Taylor’s family experienced a harrowing Christmas Day when floodwaters inundated their home in Nawajikuma, Nawaka, Nadi. Just as they were preparing for lunch, the rising waters forced them to evacuate. They quickly gathered their belongings and fled to a nearby bus shelter, taking essential items with them.
The safety of her one-week-old grandson and her daughter were at the forefront of Ms. Taylor’s mind during the chaos. Initially, the floodwaters rose to knee level, but they escalated quickly to waist height, making it impossible for the family to return to their home. Ms. Taylor’s nephew made a brave attempt to retrieve some belongings, but the situation worsened around them.
The flood caused significant damage to their home, leaving their fridge, washing machine, and bed in ruins. The aftermath revealed a heavy layer of mud throughout the house, which Ms. Taylor estimated would take days to clean up.
Despite the challenges, families at the evacuation center showed resilience by cooking meals together and sharing food with one another. Support from the Fiji Muslim League provided additional sustenance, highlighting a strong sense of community amid adversity.
This family’s story underscores the importance of community support during natural disasters and reminds us of the resilience people can display even in the most difficult circumstances. It serves as a testament to the human spirit, showing that in the face of hardship, there is hope for recovery and rebuilding.
In summary, while the Taylors faced unexpected turmoil, their actions and the assistance of the community illustrate a hopeful narrative of solidarity and resilience.
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