BY JARED KOLI
THE travelling and general public have been warned that continuous rain will be experienced in the coming days.
Following heavy rain warning number-one issued yesterday morning, by the Solomon Islands Meteorological service (SIMS), The National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has issued a Heavy Rain And Flooding What To Do Information enforced for all provinces.
“This heavy rain will likely to cause flooding to creeks, streams, major rivers and drainages. People living in or close to these areas are strongly advised to seriously take safety actions.
“Village leaders and families must listen to your radio for emergency information – SIBC, FM,HF radio, and make sure your neighbours and vulnerable people have received this advice and move to safe location when it is required,” it says.
It says people living close to rivers and shorelines must take extra precaution measures.
“When evacuated take only essential Items like radio, mobile phones, torch, knife, food, water, important papers, important medicines
“Store drinking water in sealed bottles as water supply may be interrupted (eg Dirty or supply cut off), do not allow children to play in the rain and on flood raising water or drainage systems.”
Motorists are advised to take extra care when travelling in wet, slippery and flood areas
“Make sure you have your lights on and drive at less than 40km per hour speed, beware of water covered roads and bridges, and do not attempt to cross rivers and large streams of unknown depth.
Mariners are advised to be extra caution when planning or travelling 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,” it says.
The warning stated that heavy rain can cause flash flood, river flood or low lying areas and coastal flooding.
Prolong heavy rain can cause landslide and mudslides. Heavy rain can also create very low visibility and if it goes with strong winds then it can also cause rough seas reiterating that people are advised to take extra care.
The heavy rain and flooding what to do information is current until a cancellation of the Heavy Rain warning is issued by the SI Meteorological Services.
