The Fiji Islands were struck by a category 4 major storm. Cyclone Tomas had winds of up to 205 km/hr, affecting its 2nd largest island, Vanua Levu and many of the surrounding islands, including Kadavu and Taveuni. On Tuesday 16th March, 2010, the impact of the cyclone was evident as nearly 20,000 people fled to either evacuation centres or other shelters. The total population of Fiji’s 2nd largest island is approximately 130,000, thus affecting more than 15% of the total population of the island.
A significant number of homes have been destroyed, leaving many of the 20,000 people at the mercy of the elements and makeshift shelters due to the overcrowding at many of the evacuation centres. A cyclone of this nature also destroys the natural crops and makes much of the fresh water sources flooded, extremely muddied and not suitable as potable water.
Muslim Aid Australia and partner Al-Ghazzali Centre are working with a reputable local organisation, Iqra Islamic Trust, based in Suva, Fiji. Consequently, we have undertaken a reconnaissance overview of the situation in Vanua Levu through our partnerships with local Mosque organisations, Macuata Muslim League. Through this feedback, we have begun providing emergency assistance to the local efforts for short-term stabilisation of the human suffering due to the cyclone.