Floods in Fiji

Fiji, South Pacific

Intense and continuous rains brought on by tropical depression TD17F caused flooding in large parts of Fiji.In some places more than 300 mm of rain fell in less than 24 hours since the early hours of 30 March and subsequent flash flooding caught many by surprise. So far three deaths have been reported.

As of 31 March 2012, 49 evacuation centers (of which 31 schools) with in total more than 3700 people, approximately half of which are children, have been operational in Ra (4), Tavua (5), Ba (14), Lautoka (10), Nadi (8) and Sigatoka (8).The situation is considered worse than the recent flooding in January 2012,as more areas are flooded. Deterioration of the situation can be expected as further weather systems accompanied by heavy rains are expected to affect Fiji.

The International Charter Space and Major Disasters was activated by UNOOSA on behalf of the OCHA Sub-regional Office for the Pacific.