STC Harold wreaks havoc

The projected threat path for Severe Tropical Cyclone Harold released by the Fiji Meteorological Service, released at 7.57pm last night. Picture: met.gov.fj

By GERALDINE PANPASA

Severe Tropical Cyclone Harold has intensified into a category five cyclone, making landfall in Vanuatu yesterday and posing a risk to Fiji if it continues on its projected path.

And according to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, Fiji can expect heavy rains and flooding from Severe Tropical Harold from today.

“(This means) floodwaters and road closures will likely add a new layer of complexity to our containment efforts,” he said referring to the corona virus (COVID-19) pandemic that has so far seen a total of 14 cases in Fiji.

“We cannot allow severe weather to jeopardise our life-saving game plan to lock this virus down. We are preparing to face two crises at once –– the only way we beat both is if every Fijian adheres closely to the directives from authorities.

“Our disciplined forces will be giving orders, not advice –– and they won’t tolerate disobedience. So, do what you’re told to do. Your life and the lives of those you love depend on it.”

Meanwhile, STC Harold wreaked havoc in Vanuatu, causing power and water outage in Luganville, Santo.

According to the Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office situation update on Sunday, people in need of safe shelters in the Northern parts of the country were moved into evacuation centres.

There are no confirmed cases of corona virus in Vanuatu and as many as 61 people who were quarantined at the Holiday Inn resort were released on April 5.

“Provincial Emergency Operation Centres throughout Vanuatu are working with health working groups at the provincial level to carry out awareness on COVID-19 measures and cyclone preparedness,” the Vanuatu NDMO said.

“The POEC’s are also providing support in the evacuation of people into safe evacuation centres with the assistance of area secretaries, community disaster committees, school authorities, church and respective community leaders.”

Meanwhile, the Vanuatu NDMO said social gathering restriction of five people and social distancing for COVID-19 did not apply to those seeking safe houses or evacuation centres as normal preparedness measures would apply.

STC Harold has already claimed the lives of more than 25 people in the Solomon Islands while the rest of the islands on its projected path are preparing for the worst.