Typhoon Daphne Worsens Fiji Flood Crisis

The center of storm-force Cyclone Daphne passed well to the southwest of Fiji. But its outer bands brought heavy rains that worsened the nation's flood crisis.

Torrential rains from passing Cyclone Daphne brought even further misery to flood-ravaged Fiji.

Weeks of incessant rainfall in the South Pacific island nation have forced more than 8,000 people into evacuation centers, stranded international tourists and triggered blackouts that affected the entire main island of Viti Levu.

The flood crisis became so acute that the country’s military rulers ordered airlines to stop bringing passengers into the country’s main international airport.

Instead, aircraft arrived empty and were used to evacuate stranded tourists and other overseas residents.

International relations with Fiji, including relief, have been troublesome since naval officer Voreqe Bainimarama seized control in a 2006 military coup.

Australia and New Zealand are distributing relief supplies to non-governmental organizations to avoid involving what they deem an illegitimate regime.

Cyclone Daphne Track

Satellite Loop Data: CIMSS