In Tavualevu Village, Tavua, 47 families have sought refuge in evacuation centers following heavy rainfall that led to flash floods across the Western Division. Among those affected is 45-year-old Titilia Raibe Tamailebo, who shared her distress over the loss of their farm and personal belongings. She expressed concern about their damaged mattresses and the drifting away of essentials during the tumultuous weather.
“We had to relocate our important items, including my washing machine and fridge, to the Tavua District School evacuation center,” Ms. Tamailebo explained, highlighting the challenge they faced due to lack of electricity and the loss of several kitchen appliances. Her family’s home, positioned on the lower part of the village, suffered significantly due to rising water levels from the Nasivi River.
According to village headman Emosi Vueti, flash flooding has become a frequent concern in the area, particularly exacerbated by recent heavy rains. He noted that this year’s weather patterns have seen an increase in flooding occurrences. The village’s ability to cope with such disasters has improved over time; however, the root issue lies in the Nasivi River, which has been hindered by sediment buildup from the Vatukoula River.
Mr. Vueti is urging government intervention to excavate the river effectively to mitigate future flooding risks. He has engaged in discussions with relevant authorities, including the Minister for Housing, Maciu Nalumisa, but worries that without concrete action, their pleas for assistance may go unanswered.
Additionally, Ms. Tamailebo is asking for help to replace the mattresses and other vital items lost during the floods.
This tragic situation highlights the importance of community resilience and the need for active governmental support in disaster-prone areas. As the families come together to navigate this challenging time, there is hope that with increased awareness and action, future flooding can be managed more effectively.
In summary, Tavualevu Village faces continuous challenges due to flash floods, yet the community’s perseverance and calls for action may pave the way for improvements in the future.
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