The villagers of Delakado in Tailevu are taking significant strides in weather preparedness, fueled by the hard-won lessons from the devastation of Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016, which obliterated every house in their community. Turaga ni Koro Levi Vere stressed that the traumatic memories of that catastrophic event remain ever-present, highlighting the consequences of neglecting weather updates prior to the cyclone. “During TC Winston, our village was not listening to the weather updates and we were caught off guard by the category five cyclone. TC Winston highlighted the urgent need to be vigilant. We have learned to listen to any weather reports, and we will ensure that we are prepared this time,” said Vere.
The resilience of the Delakado community echoes a growing trend seen in various regions of Fiji, where residents are increasingly prioritizing safety and preparedness ahead of storm seasons. Similar sentiments are reflected in communities like Vanuabalavu, where proactive measures are underway in anticipation of potential cyclones, underscoring the importance of following weather advisories for safeguarding lives and properties.
The collective efforts of communities in Fiji are amplifying the message of preparedness. Learning from past storms, they are enhancing their approach to weather safety, and this proactive spirit brings a message of hope as they seek to strengthen their capacity to withstand future natural disasters.
Fiji’s cyclone season is approaching, heightening the emphasis on household readiness as residents are urged to secure their properties and prepare emergency supplies. This focus on preparedness is vital in a nation increasingly affected by climate-related disasters, reflecting a commitment not only to safeguard against immediate threats but also to foster resilience in the face of future challenges. Through community cooperation and vigilant observance of weather updates, these communities are demonstrating a united front ready to navigate whatever comes their way.
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