Many families in Nadi experienced a challenging Christmas due to severe flooding that occurred on Tuesday. Ulamila Waqavatu and her family were among the 62 evacuees impacted by the floodwaters in the Nawaka area. For Waqavatu, a mother of five who has lived in Nawakalevu for over eight years, the holiday festivities took an unexpected turn.
On Christmas morning, Ms. Waqavatu received an urgent evacuation order from the police, which starkly differed from the usual warnings they had encountered in the past. “We were still asleep when the police alerted us to evacuate immediately,” she recounted. The urgency forced her to leave without gathering her clothes or food. As she rushed to the police truck, the floodwaters had already risen to her waist.
Reflecting on the experience, she shared that the reality of the situation overshadowed their initial plans for celebration. Upon arrival at the evacuation center, their Christmas meal consisted of rice and dhal. Nevertheless, Ms. Waqavatu found comfort in the resilience and love that transcended material possessions, stating that the essence of Christmas lies not in the food but in God’s love and protection.
Similarly, single mother Vasiti Vosawale, whose home was also impacted in the Nawaijikuma Settlement, described the day as a “Christmas disaster.” The evacuees utilized 12 classrooms at Andrews Primary School, which served as one of the three evacuation centers in Nadi.
Despite the hardships faced, Waqavatu expressed gratitude that everyone was safe. She highlighted the importance of adhering to safety advice from authorities, learning to take timely action when needed.
This narrative illustrates the strength and resilience of those affected by natural disasters, emphasizing the community’s spirit and hope during challenging times. The ability to find gratitude in adversity can inspire others and foster a sense of unity and support among those facing similar struggles.
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