Ono-i-Lau islanders’ prompt action save lives
While villages on Ono-iLau were not spared from Tropical Cyclone Harold’s wrath, they were prepared and as a result they were no casualties.
Mata-ni-Tikini Ono-i-Lau Eliesa Tavutu said that villagers were glad to be alive.
“This morning (yesterday) I called all the village headmen to get an update,” Mr Tavutu said.
“The good thing was that we took heed of the weather advisories that were relayed to us.
“We were ready for TC Harold and that was why no one lost their lives.
“Some of the villagers went to the church or another home that they knew was strong enough to withstand the cyclone.
“A lot of houses from the four villages were completely destroyed and it will take some time to repair. “Farms are completely destroyed and now we have to start from scratch. It will not be easy but we hope to get some assistance in rebuilding our Villages.
Chairman of Onolevu District School Jonetani Tubakibau said: “Onolevu District School kitchen completely destroyed, kindergarten completely destroyed, dormitory partly destroyed, three teachers’ quarters completely destroyed, restrooms partly destroyed.
“The other schools were partly damaged.
“I am 58-years-old and this is the first time I have witnessed a cyclone so strong. It hit us at about 10pm and that was a disadvantage.”
Motukana Village
■ 10- houses completely destroyed
■ 6- partly destroyed
Nukuni Village
■ 15 houses completely destroyed
■ 8 partly destroyed
Lovoni Village
■ 11 houses completely destroyed
■ 5 partly destroyed
Doi Village
■ 10 completely
■ 12 partly destroyed Edited by Ranoba Baoa