A family in Navua has found themselves without a home after Cyclone June unleashed devastating floods and winds that destroyed their four-bedroom wooden house in the Vakabalea area. Jojina Balu, 62, and her three grandchildren were forced to evacuate around 6 p.m. as rising floodwaters from a nearby river estuary inundated their home on the Navua delta.

Having lived in their home for over 40 years, Balu expressed her disbelief at the devastation. “We never thought this would happen to us,” she said. In the wake of the floods, the water eroded the soil around the house, displacing its structure, with neighbors scrambling to salvage what they could. Tragically, only two rooms of the house remained standing after the waters receded.

Currently, Balu, her ill husband, and her grandchildren are temporarily staying with another family in Navua. However, she voiced disappointment with the local authorities’ response, claiming that no assistance was provided despite her urgent need. Taniela Vocevoce, the District Officer for Navua, contended that Balu had been repeatedly advised to move to safer, higher ground due to the risks posed by flooding from the river. He stated that aid is typically reserved for individuals whose homes were directly destroyed by the cyclone.

Despite her difficult circumstances, Balu remains hopeful for help to rebuild her home. This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by communities living in flood-prone areas and raises critical questions about disaster preparedness and response.

The situation is not isolated, as recent reports reveal that other families across Fiji are grappling with similar issues after severe weather events, including flash floods affecting several regions, displacing dozens and leading to urgent appeals for government support. Emphasis on improving infrastructure and addressing flooding risks is crucial, as many communities strive to enhance their resilience against future weather-related disasters. With collective effort and appropriate measures, there is hope for better preparedness and quicker recovery in the aftermath of such calamities.