Disaster management officials and many residents are now witnessing firsthand the devastation caused by the fierce hurricane force winds of Tropical Cyclone Evan.
However, immediate assistance is already on the ground as quick action is being taken by various departments involved in rehabilitation efforts.
Almost 9,000 people are in evacuation centres as of yesterday and DISMAC said more people are still coming in.
DISMAC director Manasa Tagicakibau said the priorities have already been set by Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama.
He said the crucial areas are people in evacuation centres, others needing assistance, power and water supply, communications and housing damage assessment.
Tagicakibau said the 137 evacuation centres are well stocked and further assessments continue.
The DISMAC director said the Western Division is the worst affected as residents faced the full brunt of hurricane and storm force winds for many hours.
This has resulted in a lot of damage.
Tagicakibau said life is returning to normal in many parts of the Northern Division.
Prime Minister, Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama is currently visiting the affected areas in the western division.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
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