Floods Dampen Christmas Spirit for Nadi Families

This Christmas brought unexpected challenges for some families in Nadi, Fiji, as severe flooding forced many from their homes. Ulamila Waqavatu, a mother of five, found herself celebrating the holiday in an evacuation center, living on a simple meal of rice and dhal. Her home and those of many others in the Nawaka area were significantly affected by floodwaters, with the community coming together to weather the crisis.

On Christmas morning, police issued an urgent evacuation order that took many residents, including Ms. Waqavatu, by surprise. Unlike previous alerts that allowed some time for preparation, this time the call for evacuation was immediate. Ms. Waqavatu recalled waking up to police urging her family to leave quickly, with floodwaters rising alarmingly around their home. Despite the struggle, she emphasized gratitude for the safety of her family, saying they learned that the essence of Christmas lies in love and faith rather than material celebrations.

In the face of adversity, families in the evacuation centers, including 62 people utilizing 12 classrooms at Andrews Primary School, are finding solace in each other’s company. Ms. Waqavatu reflected on how this experience changed their perspective, highlighting the importance of safety and communal support. Similarly, Vasiti Vosawale, a single mother from Nawaijikuma Settlement, described the situation as a “Christmas disaster” but acknowledged the emergency services for their efforts.

While the Christmas festivities were altered due to flooding, the resilience shown by these families demonstrates their strength and ability to focus on what truly matters: the welfare of their loved ones. As the community begins to rebuild, the hope for brighter days ahead remains strong, reminding us that love and support can shine through even the darkest times.

In summary, this article highlights the impact of flooding on families in Nadi during Christmas, illustrating their resilience and emphasizing the importance of safety and love over traditional celebrations.