Fiji Floods: A Community Unites Amid Rising Waters

Fiji is once again facing the challenges of severe flooding, leading to significant actions by local authorities to safeguard residents. Recently, the Navua Hospital in Serua had to evacuate newborn babies and their mothers to the top floor as rising floodwaters threatened the safety of the facility. This urgent measure highlighted the immediate need to protect vulnerable patients, including two newborns and their mothers, as the hospital wards were overwhelmed by floodwaters.

The flooding’s impact extends beyond healthcare, severely disrupting the education system. Schools in the surrounding areas have closed, preventing many children from accessing their learning environments due to submerged roads and landslides. The agricultural sector has also sustained extensive damage, notably affecting rice crops in North-West Viti Levu, raising concerns about local food security and farmer safety.

Eroni Vaqalewa, the Navua district officer, has been actively visiting affected neighborhoods, advising residents to relocate their livestock to higher ground to ensure their safety. Meanwhile, officials from the Commissioner Central’s office remain on standby to provide shelter in local schools for evacuees should the flooding worsen overnight.

In response to the ongoing crisis, the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) has activated three evacuation centers in the Central Division, accommodating families from severely affected areas like Vatuwaqa and Wailoku in schools and community halls. The NDMO is closely monitoring the situation, as continuous heavy rains escalate river levels and flooding threats.

Historical data and recent experiences have emphasized the persistent threats of flooding in Fiji, highlighting the critical importance of population safety, emergency preparedness, and the health hazards posed by contaminated floodwaters. Despite the difficulties faced, community solidarity offers a glimmer of hope, as residents come together, embodying resilience and strength in navigating through these tumultuous times.