Caution advised, trough lies south of SI

BY LORETTA BRIGIDIA MANELE

AN active trough lies over Solomon Islands and links to ex-tropical cyclone Iris located south of Rennell/Bellona province.

This was stated in Solomon Meteorological Service’s Heavy Warning Number issue which was made at 7pm yesterday.

People living in communities located near hill slopes, large rivers, streams and low lying areas are strongly advised to take safety measures to avoid danger, loss of lives and property as heavy rain can lead to flash floods and landslides.

Motorists are also advised to be extra cautious when travelling on the road and refrain from making any attempts to cross rivers and large streams of unknown depth.

In addition, the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) also issued a Heavy Rain and Flooding What to Do Information Number Four yesterday 10.40am.

NEOC stated that heavy rain is likely to cause flooding in creeks, streams, major rivers and drainages and calls on people living in or close to the above areas to take safety actions seriously.

In the warning issued, NEOC advises that village leaders and families listen to their radio for emergency information, make sure that their neighbors and vulnerable people receive this advice and move to a safe location when required.

Also stated is that people in low lying areas take extra precaution measures thus when evacuated, should only take essential items like radio, mobile phones torch, food, water, torch, knife, important papers and medicine.

Storing drinking water in sealed water bottles in case water supply may be interrupted is also advised.

NEOC adds that children should not be allowed to play in the rain and in flood raising water or near drainage systems.

Further expressed is a call for motorists to take extra care when travelling in wet, slippery and flooded areas, ensure that lights are on when on the road and make sure that they drive at a speed not exceeding 40km per hour.

Mariners are also called to be extra careful when planning to travel out in the sea.

“Avoid travelling at all if you can. When going out in the sea, always inform someone of where about you are going and your expected time of travel. Take extra fuel, puddles, life-jackets, torch-light, spare batteries, water and some food when travelling,” said NEOC.

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