Cyclone Winston, Fiji

Overview

Category 5, 145mph wind, Fiji archipelago island compilcates response

Primary impacts

44 dead, 62% population affected, $1.98 billion damage (20% GDP), storm surges inundated 200 metres inland with coral reefs damaged up to 30 metres deep

Secondary impacts

30,000 houses destroyed (495 schools), 80% lost power, Kade village destroyed, agriculture sector lost $542 million, ‘Help for Homes’ cost $184 million, long term ecosystem disruption from reefs and some island loosing almost 100% foliage, communications between islands lost, Pressure to coordinate aid

Immediate responses/preparedness

State emergency for 2 months, International aid: New Zeland $3 million aircraft and Australia $3 million emergency personnel, Power supply took 3 months to restore, International airport closed for 2 days, Shift to 9 sector specific cluster system to coordinate government and NGOs

Long term responses

BBB principle and ‘Help for Homes’ created effective reconstruction, ‘Adopt a School’ rebuilding 229 schools to meet National Building Code, 48 villages relocated from exposed areas, mangrove replanting

Vulnerability

Reactive, porverty (weak housing), Highly exposed inland, Rapid international aid