Important warnings have been issued for villagers to move inland and to limit boat travel to and from the island.
New Ireland Disaster Preparedness Director Terrence Tashia condemned any movement by boat as warnings were already in place for strong winds and swells.Yesterday (Tuesday 23rd) andrd (January) recorded the largest sea uplift, paving up to 30 meters inland, accumulating debris and destroying homes near the sea.
Tatau 2nd Ward Councilor, Center Niu Airan LLG, John Rangel Jr., said all of issued a warning to coastal communities.th.
He said that despite advance warnings issued last week, the predicted wave intensity was not taken seriously and led to widespread destruction on the islands of the Tabar archipelago, especially in the northern region. In many coastal areas, including Tupinmida, Makake, Samteda, Konom, Biti, Sauno, Rakavir, Tovoi, Kepnapiku, Busei, Kudokdon, Pekinatugis, Subbut, Kabak, Konkitil, Rawa, Barbey, Sos, and Pekinberiu, houses and large buildings are located on Pekinberiu. Extensive damage has been reported. infrastructure.
The impact of this event has been devastating, covering all regions and leaving a trail of destruction.
“We ask all residents and communities to prioritize safety and take this warning seriously to prevent further devastation,” Rangel Jr. said.
In the meantime, the state disaster team is closely monitoring the situation and providing the state administrator with an overview for further safety measures. All coastal villages along the east coast have been advised to move inland as storm surge and rising waters continue. Initial relief assistance was provided to affected villages along the New Ireland coast.
Authorities are calling on all residents and stakeholders in coastal areas to take immediate precautions and evacuate if necessary. The safety and health of all people in these at-risk areas is of paramount concern.
So far, one confirmed casualty is an eight-year-old boy who drowned during the disaster in Phuput village.