World
Fiji Hit By Flood, Thousands Affected
A tropical storm hit Fiji, causing widespread floods and affected thousands of tourists including Australians. Fiji’s meteorological service said the tropical storm is likely to strengthen into a cyclone.
The tropical storm was spotted 1,200 kilometers west-northwest of Nadi on the western side of Viti Levu. It is moving 25 kilometers per hour and is moving southeast. Meteorologists expect it to strengthen and become a cyclone in the next 24 to 36 hours.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said that about 1,400 Australians are in Fiji although it is likely the number is higher. Foreign Affairs Minister Bob Carr said the Australian government is ready to provide assistance.
The government of Fiji has declared a state of emergency following the devastating floods that killed at least three people and evacuated about 4,000 people. Electricity has also been cut off in Viti Levu.
Flights to Nadi have also been cancelled. Fiji’s national air carrier Air Pacific said that inbound flights would be used to transport relief supplies.
The weather is expected to get worse until Tuesday. Government officials have issued a precautionary advisory not to fly in more tourists in the meantime. Tourism Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the measure is to ensure safety of international visitors.
Foreign Affairs Minister Bob Carr reiterated the advisory, warning Australians to heed the advice of the Fijian government. Carr said that so far, his office has no report of any Australian injured or at risk because of the flooding.
The government of Fiji is continuously monitoring the situation and releasing advisories as needed.
