Fiji declares state of emergency

Source: Agencies  |   2009-1-13  |     NEWSPAPER EDITION

FIJI declared a state of emergency and curfews after severe storms and flooding struck the Pacific island nation, killing eight people and forcing thousands to flee their homes, officials said yesterday.

The weekend floodwaters hit the west coast of Fiji's main island of Viti Levu and some areas remain inaccessible.

"I had just finished eating and heard shouts outside, next thing I know I was thrown out of our house and buried in mud and rubble," said survivor Verenaisi Rokobale, 24.

Rokobale said a passerby saw her hand sticking out from the mud and debris and pulled her out.

Weather officials are warning of another low depression, bringing heavy rain and strong winds, heading toward the Fiji island group, with widespread flooding expected tomorrow. Interim Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama said the government was doing all it could to help people affected by the worst deluge to hit the islands in a decade.

A total of 6,060 people have sought refuge at 114 evacuation centers, the National Disaster Management Office said yesterday.