BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
A resident of Valapata village in Vella La Vella has described the destructive force of Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila as unlike anything he has ever experienced, likening the wind to a “knife” that tore through his community.
Ian Lelokana said the powerful winds ripped through trees and homes when the cyclone struck on Wednesday, leaving behind a trail of destruction along the coastline.
“It took down coconut trees, cut nut trees, banana trees and other huge trees on our shoreline,” he told Island Sun.
Lelokana said several permanent and temporary homes were destroyed as the fierce winds battered the village, forcing residents to flee for safety.
He said villagers were evacuated to a nearby school situated on higher ground as rising sea levels and strong waves pushed inland, threatening lives and property.
“We thought we would be safe, but our prediction proved us wrong.
“On Wednesday, the cyclone hit us hard and badly. Women and children cried as panic set in. We ran around telling people to move to the school,” Lelokana said.
He described the experience as the most intense weather event he has witnessed in his lifetime.
“It was the strongest wind that I’ve ever seen in my entire life,” Lelokana said.
He also said powerful waves and strong sea currents swept away parts of the village shoreline, leaving visible erosion and damage.
Lelokana said small huts built along the coast were blown away like a balloon.
He said villagers returned after the storm to see widespread devastation.
“We were greeted with fallen houses, fallen fruit trees and part of our shoreline gone.
“It was a sad scene. Some of the women cried,” Lelokana said.
Despite the trauma, the community has begun the slow process of recovery, working together to clear debris and restore order to the village.
Lelokana said villagers have also started returning to their gardens in search of food after several days of disruption.
“It was traumatising, but we are slowly rebuilding our lives. People are returning to their gardens to get food after almost three days,” he said.
However, he warned that food shortages could soon become a serious concern.
“From what I see, food shortage will hit us soon and we need support from our provincial government as well as the national government,” Lelokana added.
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
