Tropical Cyclone Paula - Mar 2001

Tropical Cyclone PAULA passed through Vanuatu from Northwest to Southeast during 28 February to 1 March. One person was reported missing, feared drowned. Following aerial reconnaissance on 2 March, the Vanuatu Government declared Malampa and Shefa provinces in Central Vanuatu to be disaster areas; the Government reports damage to 45-50% of houses and gardens, 35% of water supplies, 20% of schools, 15% of medical centres and 25% of other infrastructure.

Tropical Cyclone PAULA crossed south of the Fiji Islands on 1 and 2 March. The worst-affected areas are the Yasawa and Mamanuca Group in the Northwest, Southwestern Viti Levu, Kadavu, parts of Lomaiviti and the Southern Lau Group. In Western Division strong winds and high waves destroyed or damaged a number of houses in nine villages along the Coral Coast (the South Coast of Viti Levu). One fatality was recorded. (OCHA, 6 Mar 2001)