The time to prepare is now. Up to 2 severe cyclones predicted

That’s the message from our disaster preparedness stakeholders after the release of the 20212022 Seasonal Outlook. The announcement was strategic as it coincided with International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction and the launch of the National Disaster Awareness Media Campaign.

Preparation is vital – not just for the November to April cyclone season, but also for any natural disaster.

Of concern is the likelihood of up to two severe tropical cyclones expected in the area of responsibility by the Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre based in Nadi.

Severe tropical cyclones are those within the category 3 to 5 range.

Fiji Met has warned that the whole of Fiji should be equally prepared for with increased chances of flooding.

Tropical disturbances or depressions that do not intensify into cyclones or low-pressure systems that are a result of decaying cyclones, can still cause widespread rainfall and potential flooding.

While these are merely predictions, it provides a good starting point for individuals to prepare. Fijians, of course, are no strangers to disasters. At yesterday’s launch, Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Inia Seruiratu said while we have lived through some of the worst experiences, but as resilient people, these events have not only taught us new lessons, but have made us equally as strong.

“This was evident in how we bounced back after the unfortunate events of Severe TC Winston in 2016.”

He also outlined how the frequency of cyclones have changed over the years.

Between 2016 and 2019 alone, Fiji was impacted by at least one cyclone a year. However, from 2017, the frequency of cyclonic events increased on average to three cyclones per season. It was during this period when three super storms have affected Fiji – TC Winston, Harold and Yasa in 2020.

Like many countries in the region and across the globe, the challenges outside of our control are varied and many

COVID-19 and other climate related outbreaks like leptospirosis, typhoid, diarrhoea and dengue (LTDD) can hinder our progress.

Mr Seruiratu’s call to start building resilience not only in our people, but in all future developments is key.

ROSI DOVIVERATA

Feedback: rosi.doviverata@fijisun.com.fj