FIJI Cyclone Gavin

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FIJI- Cyclone Gavin 07 March 1996 Information Bulletin The context As of 1500 Fiji time on Friday, Cyclone Gavin was directly over the Yasawa Group of islands in the South Pacific. The path expected is southward to within 50 kilometres of Nadi, the major international airport for Fiji. The intensity continues with winds up to 240 kilometres per hour. Severe wind and storm surge damage is expected along the west coast of Viti Levu island. Red Cross/Red Crescent action The Fiji Red Cross is on alert and has reported that, in Suva, power poles and lines are down, with some streets impassable because of fallen trees. Flooding has occurred in low lying areas. Wind gusts are expected to be over 100 kms/hour. As of this morning, Rotuma island had not suffered too badly with some roofs blown off but it is now safe. The second largest island, Vanua Levu, appears to have suffered a lot with wind damage and severe flooding. The Red Cross branch is out of contact but reports indicate that they are distributing relief goods. A total of 41 evacuation centres have been opened on Vanua Levu but the power is out. The Fiji Red Cross will keep the Federation informed of further developments. The Federation Regional Delegation in Sydney has been in touch with the New Zealand Red Cross who have an experienced delegate on stand-by to conduct a possible assessment mission. Hiroshi Higashiura Nina de Rochefort Director Desk Officer Asia and Pacific Department Asia and Pacific Department.

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