ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS PRESS CONFERENCE BY DIRECTOR NDMO MS. VASITI SOKO

Bula Vinaka and Good Afternoon Members of the Media,
 
I’d like to also welcome all our fellow citizens joining us virtually on the Fiji Government platform’s live broadcast.
 
Following our briefing with the Fiji Meteorological Services today, they have confirmed the following:
 
Heavy rain warning remains in force for the whole of Fiji Group
-Rain to continue until Friday; and
-With the soil heavily saturated from the continuous heavy rainfall recorded in the past week, the risk of flash-flooding occurring is “very high”.

Ladies and gentlemen, over the last 24 hours, the team at the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) has received reports of flash-flooding and landslips, particularly in the Central Division, and reports of road closures due to flooding in the Central, Western and Northern Divisions.

As a precautionary measure, along with the assistance of the Fiji Police Force, we put in place a “restriction of movement” notice at both ends of the Rewa Bridge. The events of last night served as a stark reminder of the collective effort needed to tackle the problem of inadequate drainage, particularly in our immediate vicinity.

It is essential that we all take responsibility for ensuring that drains and water channels adjacent to our homes are kept clear. These proactive measures will facilitate unhindered water flow, particularly during times of heavy rain.
 
We are in constant communication with all four divisional commissioners to continuously assess the situation on the ground. We have also been receiving regular updates from the Fiji Police Force on updates from their deployments on the ground, and I am pleased to note that there have been zero reports of flood-related injuries or casualties.
 
The Emergency Committee held its second meeting earlier today and chaired the PS Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management. During the meeting, we were able to receive updates from the ground, and also lead discussions on the Government’s interventions as we collectively respond to the impact of the adverse weather presently affecting the Fiji Group. At this stage, our immediate focus includes the:
-Restoration of critical services
-Initiation of Initial and Detailed Damage Assessments
-Disinfection of schools used as evacuation centres; and
-Awareness on Leptospirosis, Typhoid, Dengue, and Diarrhoea (LTDD)
 
As you all are aware, all schools were also closed and non-essential servants were advised to assess their situation and decide accordingly. I wish to reiterate that these response measures have been taken merely for the safety of every citizen. We are also liaising closely with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Civil Service to review the two decisions made yesterday on the resumption of school and work for non-essential civil servants, and we will update the public accordingly.
 
As of this afternoon, I can confirm that 2 evacuation centres remain active in the Central and Western Divisions, sheltering more than 60 evacuees from 12 households. Earlier today, food ration supplies were supplied to families currently billeted at an active evacuation centre in the West to help sustain them while they await their return home. These evacuees had been at the EC in Navuevu, Nadroga for more than 48 hours.
 
Ladies and gentlemen, while we diligently monitor the current situation, it is incumbent upon all of us to adhere to warnings and advisories issued by authorities. We urge the general public to continuously adhere to advisories issued by the relevant authorities. Stay tuned to local news channels and official weather updates from the NDMO, the Fiji Met Services, and the Fiji Government platforms for the latest information and advisories.

Ensure you have essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, medication, and first-aid kits readily available in case of evacuation or emergencies. Reach out to elderly neighbors, individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, and families with young children to ensure they have the necessary support and assistance.
 
Stay indoors during heavy rain and avoid any unnecessary travel, especially in flood-prone areas. Keep an eye on nearby water levels, rivers, and streams. Be prepared to evacuate to higher ground if the need arises. If the need to move arises, MOVE WHILE IT IS DAYLIGHT! Contact the Fiji Police Force or the National Fire Authority (NFA) should you need assistance to move to higher ground. Information on designated Evacuation Centres can be accessible on the NDMO website on: www.ndmo.gov.fj.
 
In terms of land transport, we continuously plead with motorists to exercise caution while out on our roads. Several roads, bridges, and crossings are currently inaccessible due to flooding, therefore, we call on the general public to limit any unnecessary travel and stay home for your safety.
 
I wish to also acknowledge first responders from the Fiji Police Force and the National Fire Authority (NFA) who braved the heavy rain last night to offer assistance and evacuate vulnerable families in the Nasinu and Nausori areas due to flash-flooding in the Central Division. With more rain expected in the coming days, we should also brace ourselves for potential river flooding. It is crucial to strictly adhere to advisories. You must remember that the safety of our first responders is also of paramount importance to us during such times, therefore, we plead with the general public to follow directives and advisories issued by all relevant authorities.
 
Early preparation plays a pivotal role in minimising the potential impact on human life and property. When individuals and communities are well-prepared, they can respond more effectively during the critical moments when a disaster unfolds.
 
Thank You and Vinaka Vakalevu.