This Christmas was marked by significant challenges for families in Nadi as heavy floods disrupted their celebrations. Ulamila Waqavatu, alongside her family, found themselves at an evacuation center, having to settle for a humble meal of rice and dhal. Their home in the Nawaka area, along with those of 61 other evacuees, was affected by the rising waters.
Waqavatu recounted a startling experience on Christmas morning when police alerted them to evacuate immediately due to unexpected flooding. In the rush, she and her family were unable to gather their belongings, as the water quickly reached waist-deep levels outside their home. The urgency of the situation made them forget it was Christmas.
Upon arriving at the evacuation center, they reflected on the significance of the holiday, realizing that the true meaning of Christmas transcends material celebrations. Waqavatu expressed gratitude that, despite the adverse conditions, no lives were lost and emphasized the importance of safety over festivities. She has learned to heed police warnings after living in Nawakalevu for eight years, experiencing various floods.
Another evacuee, single mother Vasiti Vosawale, also described the day as a Christmas disaster, as their homes were rendered unlivable. The community was able to find refuge at Andrews Primary School, which has been one of the three designated evacuation centers in Nadi.
This story highlights the resilience of families faced with adversity, showcasing how, in the spirit of Christmas, they choose to focus on gratitude and the care of their loved ones above all else. The swift action of local authorities in ensuring the safety of residents further demonstrates community support in times of crisis.
As communities rally together during such challenging times, there is hope for recovery and rebuilding, reinforcing the importance of solidarity and compassion in the face of natural disasters.
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