By PNG correspondent and the Pacific Local Journalism Network
Tropical Cyclone Maila has wreaked havoc after lingering in the Solomon Sea for several days, leaving a significant trail of destruction across the region.
Reports from villages in the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea (PNG), and Bougainville indicate widespread flooding, storm surges, and extensive damage to infrastructure.
In PNG, officials are particularly concerned about two small islands located in the southeast, as the cyclone’s eye is predicted to pass directly over them.
As the slow-moving storm continues to make its way toward Papua New Guinea, it has already caused considerable damage across various Pacific islands. Currently classified as a category three cyclone, Maila is advancing westward at approximately 7 kilometers per hour, with central winds reaching around 200 kilometers per hour.
The cyclone has inflicted severe damage across the Pacific, with coastal areas in the Solomon Islands, Bougainville, and PNG reporting extensive destruction this week.
In the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, known for its tourism, numerous buildings have been destroyed, and many communities are experiencing significant flooding due to the storm’s prolonged presence in the Solomon Sea. At one point, Maila escalated to a category five storm, generating massive waves and storm surges.
In Bougainville, relentless rainfall has resulted in swollen rivers and landslides, leading to the disappearance of roads in several locations.
To date, two fatalities have been confirmed in Papua New Guinea.
As the cyclone progresses westward, authorities express concern for the islands of Woodlark, located in the Milne Bay province, and Budi Budi, which is home to a few hundred residents. The eye of the storm is anticipated to impact these islands early tomorrow morning.
Barry Kirby, the director of the charity The Hands of Rescue, expressed grave concerns for the isolated population of Budi Budi. “The entire island could be flooded, and I fear for potential loss of life. It is going to be devastating,” he stated.
Dr. Kirby, residing in Alotau, the capital of Milne Bay, noted that Woodlark Island, which has around 7,000 inhabitants, features a functioning airstrip and medical facilities, making it less vulnerable than Budi Budi due to its higher elevation. However, he cautioned that the essential market gardens that sustain both communities may be destroyed, and he is preparing to deliver food supplies post-storm. “This is just the initial aid; it is a logistical challenge to reach these areas,” he added. “We will also need to send medical supplies for those who may be injured or unwell.”
Egnios Sinodi, the principal of Budi Budi Primary School, conveyed his deep concern for the island’s residents. He traveled to the PNG mainland last week and has been unable to return due to adverse weather conditions. Sinodi has been unable to contact his wife and children, as Budi Budi lacks mobile and telephone coverage. “My primary worry is for the people, not the school,” he said, emphasizing the island’s flat terrain, which offers no refuge in case of flooding or high tides. “Survival may depend on finding a boat or canoe,” he added.
Meanwhile, residents in Far North Queensland are closely monitoring the cyclone’s approach as it nears the Australian coast.
In response to the devastation in the western Solomon Islands, the government announced a $2 million assistance package for affected communities. The Australian government is actively tracking Maila’s progression and is prepared to provide support to both Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
The Bureau of Meteorology in Australia has indicated that while the precise path of Maila remains uncertain, forecasts suggest it may cross the Queensland coast north of Cooktown, potentially impacting the Coen and Lockhart River areas by Monday or Tuesday. It is anticipated that the cyclone will weaken to a category two storm prior to reaching the Far North Queensland coastline next week.
