Fiji & Tonga
We anticipate further updates most likely now on Monday as despite the lockdown, Easter Sunday will be a solemn and respectful day in those countries.
Vanuatu
The Rotary supplies held in Vanuatu previously sent by RAWCS and RNZWCS have been located fit for purpose.
These photos received today from Port Vila.
Headline updatesThere remain two reported fatalities in Vanuatu. There has been one reported fatality in Fiji. Tonga has not reported any fatalities.
Vanuatu
Confirmed fatalities from TC Harold remains at two. There are reports of injuries from a medical team on the island.
There are reports that hundreds of people remain in evacuation centres across Vanuatu’s impacted northern islands. This is raising concerns about protection and security for women, children and the vulnerable.
The largest local pharmacy chain reports potential stock shortages, especially in regards to diabetic and asthmatic products. They believe they have 4 – 5 weeks of stock for critical items.
Fiji
- One casualty from TC Harold has been confirmed in the Eastern Division. .
- The State of Emergency has not yet been activated.
- Initial Damage Assessment (IDA) from the Eastern Division recorded a total of 244 houses were destroyed and 203 partially damaged. Central Division recorded a total of 94 houses destroyed and 242 houses partially damaged. A total of 155 evacuation centres remain active with 1991 evacuees.
- Local reports from the Lau Group continue to cite food insecurity as the greatest concern, with basic food supplies and agricultural produce only expected to last the week.
- Telecommunications services have been partially restored in Kadavu for Digicel and Vodafone, however full restoration is still ongoing. Communications with islands in the Lau Group are still unknown.
Tonga
- No fatalities have been reported.
- Infrastructure around the coastal areas is badly damaged from storm surge and strong winds, particularly Western beaches. The ‘Eua wharf has been severely damaged. The Ha’apai wharf has also suffered damage, but the wharf in Nuku'alofa has escaped serious damage.
- The main road to the airport on Tongatapu has suffered significant damage.
- The lockdown for COVID-19 is extended for a week, but schools, churches and small businesses may open. Curfew to remain in place.
PDG Stuart J Batty QSM,JP
Executive Director
RNZWCS Limited (Rotary New Zealand)
PO Box 20309
Christchurch 8543
New Zealand
Ph/Fax 64 3 3599218
cellphone 027 2695615
skype: superbatts
Member : Council for International Development
Charities Services Reg. No. CC26860