BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
VILLAGES along the coastline of central Ranongga Island in Western Province are experiencing severe weather conditions as a tropical depression continues to affect large parts of the province.
Communities have reported strong winds and persistent heavy rainfall over the past few days, with waves exceeding three metres posing a serious threat to coastal properties.
Wooden canoes and boats have been moved to higher ground as residents brace for worsening conditions.
Freelancer, Chris Podokolo, who is currently on the island, said people are preparing for the worst, with some communities already putting evacuation plans in place.
“Koriovuku community has witnessed sea levels rising to about 1.5 metres, with powerful waves breaking through the coastline,” Podokolo said.
He added that despite previous efforts to strengthen the coastline following the April 2, 2007 tsunami, where land levels were raised between two to three metres, the current waves are now reaching beyond those barriers.
Podokolo said residents living along the coast remain on edge as winds continue to intensify.
“There is constant fear among people as the wind keeps picking up speed,” he said.
Podokolo said travel has also been disrupted, with community leaders advising against sea travel to prevent accidents and possible loss of life.
He said this has significantly affected Easter preparations, as many families are unable to travel to Gizo for shopping.
“Visibility is very poor at the moment, so most boat owners have decided not to travel,” Podokolo added.
Meanwhile, the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service has issued weather warnings as the system intensifies.
As of 5pm yesterday, a tropical low (37U) with a central pressure of 991 hectopascals was located near latitude 9.1 degrees south and longitude 155.1 degrees east—approximately 128 nautical miles (238 kilometres) west of Rendova Island.
The system is moving slowly west-northwest at about four knots in the Solomon Sea and is expected to intensify further.
Forecasts indicate gale force winds of between 34 to 47 knots over Western Province, while Choiseul and Isabel provinces can expect winds of up to 33 knots.
Sea conditions are expected to worsen, with rough seas and moderate swells ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 metres, increasing the risk of coastal flooding.
Other parts of the country are also expected to experience strong winds of 20 to 25 knots and moderate to rough seas.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging communities to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions as the weather system develops.
Photo: Supplied
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
