Before and after aerial images of affected agricultural area in the southern part of the island. Photo: UNITAR/UNOSAT
148 houses out of 198 have been destroyed or damaged in the remote Solomon Island of Tikopia, community group says.
A Solomon Islands medical doctor and Tikopian community spokesperson based in Honiara, Dr Jackson Rakei, told RNZ Pacific that food and medical supplies were also in short supply on the island.
“Urgently the people need food supplies and medical supplies, in the case of maybe there happens to be an outbreak of diarrhoea,” Dr Rakei said.
Dr Jackson Rakei, who has been involved a lot in previous damage assessments, is this time acting as the communications advisor for the Tikopia/Anuta Disaster Committee.
He is concerned about the livelihoods of Tikopians and their health.
A police patrol boat is expected to depart Honiara this Thursday, carrying rice and medical supplies.
But Dr Rakei said it will take three days to arrive.
He has been told the four people who were injured all had minor injuries and are now recovering after being battered by Lola.
In 2015, Tikopia island was one of the worst affected by category 5 Cyclone Pam, which flattened trees and crops and residents were forced to shelter in caves.
Tikopia was only just recovering from dual cyclones Kevin and Judy earlier this year when Lola came around.
“We are used to cyclones battering us every time, so people know what to do when it comes to cyclones striking,” Dr Rakei said.
In 2015, Tikopia island was one of the worst affected by category 5 Cyclone Pam, which flattened trees and crops and residents were forced to shelter in caves. (file) Photo: Supplied
Fresh crops had been planted and homes were being rebuilt but wiped out in this latest cyclone, he said.
He said while his community would have responded well, carrying elderly to safe areas in anticipation of the storm, the race is now on to get food to their loved ones left stranded.
There is also concern that Pacific Games preparation that will be held in three weeks’ time will hamper aid efforts.
“There are lots of things happening in the country [including] the Pacific Games, so a lot of attention has gone to that, it’s a national event here,” Dr Rakei explained.
Dr Rakei said while government departments are doing their best, he has called for overseas support to assist with the immediate recovery on Tikopia.
“I would like also to reach out to neighbouring countries, like if they can support us in any way,” He said.
If you are in Honiara and want to donate you can take food, money and or tools to Fleet Solomons on the western side of Honiara city.
