Published: 6 January 2003
The distribution of Red Cross relief supplies on the cyclone-battered island of Tikopia has begun with more than 1700 blankets provided by the Solomon Islands Red Cross to people left homeless by Cyclone Zoe. The cyclone swept over the Solomon Islands on 28 and 29 December, with Tikopia and Anuta being the worst hit. Apart from the blankets, the ship "Isabella", which reached Tikopia on Monday morning (6 January), local time, also brought a 30-horse power engine for a dinghy boat, a generator, as well as fuel to operate them. Two members of the Solomon Islands Red Cross were aboard.
Although winds reached more than 300 kilometres an hour, no deaths were reported, only light injuries. Many people sheltered in caves until the cyclone blew over. "We are relieved that the cyclone did not kill anyone on Tikopia, but damage to homes in coastal villages and crops is immense. The island population will probably need food assistance for several months," said Simon Missiri, head of the Federation's Asia-Pacific department in Geneva. Initial reports from the authorities say 70 families had their homes destroyed.
Aboard the "Isabella" were also water containers, drinking water, rice, clothes and chain saws, provided by the Solomon Islands government and other NGO's. It was the second ship to reach Tikopia. A first vessel, carrying government officials and a medical team, reached Tikopia (population 1500) early Sunday morning. A medical clinic was set up to treat the injured.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has made available 100 family kits, containing cooking utensils and hygiene articles for cyclone victims. They are being loaded onto a third boat, scheduled to leave the capital, Honiara, for Tikopia on Tuesday afternoon. In addition, the Australian and New Zealand Red Cross and the International Federation are providing funds to the Solomon Islands Red Cross for relief and logistical support.For further information, or to set up interviews, please contact:
Jemini Pandya, Information Officer - Tel: + 41 22 730 45 70 / + 41 79 217 33 74
Media Service Duty Phone - Tel: + 41 79 416 38 81