The Central Division Emergency Operations Center has been activated to respond to severe weather conditions, particularly heavy rainfall impacting various regions of the country. During a recent press conference, Minister for Rural, Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, announced that the Fiji Police Force is prepared for potential evacuations from flood-prone areas.
Fijians needing evacuation assistance are encouraged to contact 917. The minister highlighted flash flooding observed in Sigatoka Town and adjoining low-lying areas, noting that recent high-intensity rainfall coinciding with high tides contributed to this situation.
Mr. Ditoka emphasized the collaborative efforts of local teams with the Sigatoka Town Council and police to manage movement within the area. To mitigate risks, he advised against unnecessary travel during this heavy rain period.
As a precautionary measure, a household with ten members from Calia Settlement in Serua was successfully evacuated to a nearby LDS Church, but they have since returned home safely. The minister expressed concerns regarding the significant risks flooding poses and urged the public to prioritize safety by staying indoors, especially protecting children and families from potential hazards.
He warned of anticipated traffic disruptions and possible road closures, advising motorists to exercise extreme caution and avoid crossing flooded routes. A flash flood alert remains in effect for various low-lying areas and smaller streams across several divisions, including Vanua Levu, Lami, Suva, Nausori, Tailevu, and Naitasiri.
Furthermore, a heavy rain warning persists for the Northern Division, while alerts are active for the Central and Eastern Divisions, as well as the Yasawa Group. Mr. Ditoka explained that the current weather conditions are due to a trough of low pressure moving over the Fiji group, which is expected to improve as conditions gradually ease throughout the day and clear by Thursday.
The situation highlights the importance of community awareness and proactive measures in disaster management, emphasizing that collective efforts and adherence to safety guidance can significantly reduce risks during severe weather events.
In these challenging times, it is heartening to see the dedication of emergency services working to ensure the safety of the community. By following the recommended precautions, residents can help protect themselves and their loved ones from the dangers posed by flooding.
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