Church Steps in During Fiji Flooding

At least eight people died during the worst flooding in a generation and subsequent landslides on the west side of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu, in mid-January 2009.

Floodwaters covered Nadi, Rakiraki, and Ba, and more than 9,000 people, including many member families, fled to the 118 government-sponsored evacuation shelters. Members and missionaries were reported safe. After the floods subsided, members participated in the cleanup and restoration work.

“The Church worked with the government relief organization DISMAC to supplement food, water, and clothing provided to individuals and families housed in the emergency shelters,” said Elder John Larsen, area welfare specialist in the Pacific Area. “The local stakes also sponsored food and clothing drives for distribution within their boundaries.”

Flooding destroyed the Ba meetinghouse, leaving only the outer walls of the building standing. People used the Nadi meetinghouse as a temporary shelter.

Floods and landslides in Fiji damaged homes and sent more than 9,000 people to shelters.

Photograph by Lin Bothwell