TROPICAL CYCLONE PAM CLAIMED 2 HOMES, CLASSROOM AT SIA

Tropical Cyclone Pam has claimed two dwelling homes and a classroom on Sikaiana Island, Malaita Outer Islands.

Relaying reports by a Farther Henry Tupo from Sikaiana, a former diplomat Robert Sisilo told SIBC News three buildings have been destroyed and garden crops inundated.

“At the moment a Form 2 classroom has been destroyed by strong winds, including two residential buildings, but the worst impact has been the inundation of food gardens by flood waters due to continuous heavy rain.”

He says at the moment the people’s only hope is for a vessel to bring them food supplies and officials from the National Disaster Management Office to assess their current situation.

SIBC News understands, MV Baruku under the government’s franchise shipping scheme, is serving the Auki Sikaiana return route on a monthly basis.

FRANJTI Shipping Company confirms the vessel is scheduled for tomorrow but only if the weather permits.

Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone Pam has caused significant damage to communities in East Malaita

Stringer Enoch Idui reports, strong winds associated with Cyclone Pam has destroyed a number of homes and trees in the region.

Mr Idui adds various schools in the region have already suspended classes.

Meanwhile, Mr Idui explains, there is no flooding threat as there’s no heavy rain.

“We have experienced strong winds since Tuesday this week, causing damage like fallen trees and a few homes destroyed. We haven’t experienced heavy rain and floods but only strong winds. I understand various schools in the region have suspended classes on Tuesday this week.”