No Injuries Reported on Cicia Island

Strong winds and heavy rain caused significant damage on Cicia Island in the Lau Group as Tropical Cyclone Rae made landfall in Fiji yesterday.

There were reports of home roofs partially blown-off, farms destroyed, and floodwaters entering the village.

However, no injuries have been reported as a result of the destructive windy conditions.

Dr Rusila Tikoitoga, the medical officer for Cicia, provided an update from Tarukua Village yesterday, noting that as of 4pm, the island was still experiencing severe weather.

“Trees fell on roofs that partially damaged homes, the bridge was damaged, and farms, including root crops, were also affected by destructive winds,” Dr Rusila said.

By 6pm, Tropical Cyclone Rae was located about 80 kilometres east-northeast of Moala or about 70km south of Cicia.

Despite the damage, Dr Rusila confirmed that no injuries were recorded.

“We have four families in Tarukua at the evacuation centre, which is the school. Apart from that, all is well, and no one is injured,” she said.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) has activated 18 evacuation centres in the Northern Division.

These include 12 schools, three community halls, and three private residences. Residents in flood-prone areas in Vanua Levu have been advised to move to the nearest evacuation centre for safety.

For emergency assistance, the public can contact the following numbers:

• 910 – National Fire Authority;
• 913 – Energy Fiji Limited;
• 917 – Fiji Police Force;
• 5777 – Water Authority of Fiji;
• 5720 – Fiji Roads Authority;
• 8811322 – Divisional EOC;
• 9994261 - Commissioner Northern Division

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