UNICEF ready to respond to cyclones in Fiji

UNICEF ready to respond to cyclones in Fiji and Solomon Islands

Wellington, 15 March 2010. – UN Children’s Fund staff are ready to assist in the wake of two extreme cyclones which hit Fiji and the Solomon Islands simultaneously today.

Cyclone Tomas, now over Fiji, has intensified to become a Category Four Hurricane – one short of the maximum. There are initial reports of at least one death, significant infrastructure damage, widespread disruptions to power supplies, drinking water and transportation, flooding and eight metre sea-swells in the north. The cyclone is moving south along the eastern side of Fiji. Fiji’s Meteorological Service has forecast damaging gale force winds exceeding 200kmh and extending about 280km from the cyclone’s centre. All schools have been closed and civil servants told to stay home.

Meanwhile, Cyclone Ului has become a Category Five Hurricane moving west across the southern Solomon Islands with a number of very remote islands hit in the last 12-18 hours. Authorities have already received reports of damage in several villages in Makira/Ulawa Province while storm-surges last night resulted in some people being evacuated to safer areas. Severe flooding in low-lying coastal areas is expected today. Further damage assessments will become available in the next day or so as authorities try to re-establish communication links. Sustained winds of over 200kmh, with maximum gusts to 260kmh, are being recorded.

UNICEF NZ Executive Director, Dennis McKinlay, says that UNICEF stands ready to assist where required.

"UNICEF's network of offices in the Pacific and long history in emergency response means we are well placed to help with yet another disaster impacting our Pacific neighbours. Our hearts go out to the people affected."

UNICEF staff in the Pacific are ready to assist both countries with pre-positioned emergency response supplies. These include medical equipment, drugs, water containers, water purifying tablets, soap, tarpaulins, and tents together with written information materials promoting key hand washing, breastfeeding and sanitation and hygiene behaviours.

People can donate to UNICEF NZ’s Emergency Fund on 0800 800 194 or online at www.unicef.org.nz

ENDS

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