A severe whirlwind struck Sarava, Labasa, leaving a family of five devastated as their three-bedroom home was rendered uninhabitable. The incident took place on Monday at approximately 4 PM, coinciding with a heavy rainfall, which the family noted was an unusual occurrence.
Setariki Matanidaku, a sugarcane farmer, recounted the terrifying experience, describing how he and his wife sought refuge by a concrete wall to shield themselves from the fierce winds and debris. Fortunately, their three children were at school at the time and were unharmed, but the family is now faced with significant losses. The whirlwind uprooted the roof and blew down the side walls, damaging the family’s furniture and leaving their food supplies nearly depleted.
As they stand amid the ruins of their home, the family appeals for assistance from non-governmental organizations and the government, emphasizing the urgent need for building materials like roofing iron and timber to facilitate the reconstruction of their house. Currently, they are staying with relatives nearby, but they express uncertainty about when they will be able to return to their own home.
Mr. Matanidaku’s situation is reminiscent of recent incidents where families have faced sudden emergencies resulting in the loss of homes, such as some families in Rarawai, who have been displaced by fires. These incidents highlight a growing need in the community for support and resources to assist families in rebuilding and recovering from tragic events.
The Matanidaku family can be contacted at 8445710 for those willing to contribute to their recovery efforts. Despite the hardships they face, there remains a sense of community spirit and hope that help will soon come their way.
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