Three evacuation centres are currently open, billeting more than 200 evacuees from villages affected by the flash-floods in Serua this morning.
National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) director, Vasiti Soko said this is after heavy rainfall experienced from last night into this morning caused severe flash flooding in several low-lying areas of the Serua coastal region
“The NDMO reiterates that with weather forecasts indicating heavy rain for the next 48 hours, the situation could worsen by the next high tide. We are requesting members of the public to move to their nearest evacuation centers while it is still daylight and to call on the authorities if you need help,” Ms Soko said.
She also confirmed that during this period, the NDMO also received three reports of landslides that have disrupted travel into these affected areas. These areas are Talenaua, Yarawa and Vunitaqala in Serua.
“I would like to thank the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) for their swift action in clearing access, allowing Fiji Police Force and National Fire Authority vehicles to reach communities in need of assistance,” she said.
Authorities have cleared the sites at Talenaua and Yarawa, while efforts continue to clear the site of the hazard at Vunitaqala.
Additionally, the NDMO was notified of an incident involving a fallen powerline at Galoa Village, Serua. This was addressed swiftly by the relevant authority, without any reported casualty.
“The NDMO is working closely with key stakeholders to ensure assistance is provided to the affected communities,” Ms Soko said.
The affected communities affected by flood waters include:
- Nakoba/Waivunu Flats
- Nakorovou Village
- Yarawa Flats
- Korovisilou Village
- Vunaniu Village
- Somosomo Flats – Naboutini
