RSIPF receives reports of damage caused by current bad weather

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) appeals to members of the public throughout the Guadalcanal province to think safety first during the current bad weather caused by tropical cyclone (TC) Harold.

Commanders of the Police Operation Centre (POC) at the Police Headquarters in Rove, Honiara, Commander Chief Superintendent John Rove says, “The call is being made as police continues to receive reports that Mbalasuna, Ngalibiu, Metapono and Tenaru Rivers in East Guadalcanal and other rivers in other parts of Guadalcanal are rising and flooded. The flooded rivers are damaging homes and food gardens in the areas and have forced families to seek shelter as their homes are washed away.”

Police have been informed that a team from the Guadalcanal Province Disaster Committee are ready to send their officers to do assessment on communities that were really affected by this current bad weather

Chief Superintendent Rove adds: “Owners and skippers of boats and vessels are urged to think safety first before embarking on any trip at sea during his current bad weather. Check the weather by listening to the SIBC and other radio stations or call the Met service on 933 and get the right information before embarking on your trip.”

“If you are at sea and need help, contact the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) on phones 21609 or 27685, or toll free line 977. You can also call the Police Communication Centre on 23666 or the toll free line 999.”

“Road users in Honiara and throughout the Guadalcanal province as well as other provinces are also advised to take safety measures when travelling on the roads as we experience bad weather throughout the country. Please do not cross flooded rivers or streams,” says John Rove

“Given the slippery road conditions, pedestrians are also encouraged to take care when walking along the foot paths. Parents are reminded to keep your children away from flooded rivers or streams.”

“We do not want to lose any lives during this bad weather. Let us all work together to make sure of everyone’s safety and security,” says POC Commander Rove