On April 4, 1973, an unexpected storm with winds exceeding 50 knots impacted Savusavu in Vanua Levu, resulting in significant destruction to homes, schools, and local vessels. The cyclone, identified as Cyclone Juliette, also wreaked havoc on Taveuni, where it damaged at least two pleasure craft.
Eddie Douglas, a local planter, sustained head injuries while attempting to rescue his nephew’s launch amidst the storm. At that time, he was treated in a hospital in Waiyevo, Taveuni. The report also mentioned that Adrian Tarte’s boat, Adi Vaturogo, was missing following the cyclone.
Witnesses described a tumultuous scene in Savusavu Bay, where small boats were overturned, and the waterfront was left in disarray. Approximately 20 individuals lost their homes when their dwelling in Nacekoro, located about a mile from the airport, was destroyed. These families were relocated to temporary housing in Yaroi Village.
Tom Cornish, the district officer in Savusavu, confirmed there were no reported casualties from the cyclone. However, the local primary school’s headteacher, Wilfred Stephens, conveyed the chaos as the school sustained notable damage. He recounted the terrifying moment when the wind intensified suddenly, causing structural damage and uprooting trees.
Mr. Cornish noted that fallen coconut trees obstructed roads on both the West and East coasts of Savusavu, prompting the Public Works Department to work diligently to reopen these routes. He further highlighted that around 120 students from Savusavu Junior Secondary School were now without classrooms, with a survey team assessing the overall damage.
In Taveuni, Cyclone Juliette’s winds struck around 5:30 a.m. and exited the island by roughly 6:30 a.m., despite causing severe impacts, including breaches along the coastal road.
As the historical remnants of Cyclone Juliette are remembered, it’s crucial to acknowledge the resilience of the impacted communities and the efforts being made to recover and rebuild. The restoration following such devastating events often leads to stronger foundations for the future, highlighting the indomitable spirit of those affected.
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