Flooding has once again impacted Fiji, prompting significant responses from local authorities. Recently, newly born babies and their mothers were evacuated to the top floor of Navua Hospital in Serua due to surging floodwaters threatening the area. During the floods, it was necessary to move patients, including two newborns and their mothers, to safer accommodations as the hospital wards became inundated.
The flooding has not only affected healthcare facilities but also disrupted the education sector, with schools in nearby areas closing as floodwaters hindered access for many children. Roads were submerged and blocked by landslides, resulting in considerable damage to agricultural crops, particularly rice in North-West Viti Levu, and raising safety concerns amongst local farmers.
Navua district officer, Eroni Vaqalewa, visited affected neighborhoods, advising residents to move their livestock to higher ground to ensure their safety. Officers from the Commissioner Central’s office reported being prepared to accommodate evacuees in schools in Navua in case the floodwaters intensified overnight.
In a reflective note, the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) has recently activated three evacuation centers in the Central Division to help residents affected by flooding in areas like Vatuwaqa and Wailoku. Families seeking refuge are currently located in schools and community halls. They are diligently monitoring the situation as heavy rains persist, causing rising river levels and increased flooding risks.
Both historical and recent reports highlight the ongoing challenges posed by flooding in Fiji, raising awareness among residents about population safety, the need for emergency preparedness, and the health risks associated with contaminated floodwaters. As communities come together to support one another during these trying times, there is hope that collective resilience will help them navigate through adversity.
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