SUVA, December 18, 2020 – UNICEF is working with the Fijian government, civil society, and UN and NGO partners to reach thousands of children in Fiji who are desperately needed after Tropical Cyclone Yasa, a category five cyclone, hit Fiji overnight and has hit Fijians across the country and across the country has caused widespread destruction in the Northern Division.

“UNICEF stands ready to assist the Fiji government to respond to the urgent needs of families and children affected by the disastrous effects of Tropical Cyclone Yasa,” said Sheldon Yett, representative for UNICEF Pacific. “We will work with our government, civil society and other partners to provide clean water and emergency health and education services to children in affected communities.”

Severe tropical cyclone Yasa, a category five cyclone that can reach wind speeds of up to 345 km / h, has caused widespread destruction. Waves of up to 14 meters destroy homes and many schools, particularly in Bua, on the island of Vanua Levu in the US Northern Division.

The government of Fiji has reported that there are currently 23,479 people in evacuation centers across the country in 457 evacuation centers.

Tropical Cyclone Yasa follows Tropical Cyclone Harold earlier this year, which destroyed homes, schools, crops and infrastructure in Fiji. UNICEF has continued efforts to assist children and communities following Tropical Cyclone Harold and is concerned about the potential impact of Tropical Cyclone Yasa on children and families at risk, particularly in light of the ongoing pandemic.

Many communities have been cut off from support due to flooding and road destruction. UNICEF is ready to transport supplies by boat to reach communities, including those furthest away. UNICEF will work in partnership with the government to reach families in need.

Supplies such as essential water, sanitation and toiletries, including soap, water containers and buckets to ensure children and families have access to safe drinking water, as well as emergency and midwife kits, including basic medication, medical supplies and equipment, are pre-positioned and ready to be distributed as needed.

Additionally, UNICEF stands ready to support communities by providing school boxes and early childhood development kits, including books, pens and materials, to meet learning needs and help children regain a sense of normalcy as soon as possible after the disaster to get.

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