THERE is fear of flash flooding circulating amongst riverside settlers along the Fiu and Kwaiafa Rivers, as continuous heavy rain caused both rivers to flood substantially as of Tuesday.
People living near the rivers have since started to flee to higher grounds over fears of flash flooding.
Solomon Star visited the two rivers which meet in front of the Fiu Bridge, and talked to residents within the area, some of whom had already moved to higher ground.
“We are indeed afraid the rivers might rise high and also flash flooding might hit as, so we have moved to higher ground.
“Kwaiafa River had flooded since last (Sunday) night where as Fiu river has only started to flood.
“However we are so afraid having heard of the flash floods in Honiara, therefore we decided to head for higher ground until such a time we think it is safe to go back to our houses (beside the river),” a mother who had fled with her children said.
Those living in the areas beside the river also informed this paper that as of recent times, the water rises up to the main road and even to the bridge whenever flooded.
“The river nowadays floods and rises so high, unlike some years back.
“Seeing this and after seeing what happened in Honiara, people now live in a state of fear and panic whenever there is heavy rain and flooding,” another riverside settler said.
Meanwhile an officer from the Solomon Islands Meteorological Services confirmed yesterday that the heavy rains experienced in Malaita (mostly Auki) since Sunday is at an average rate of 74 litres.
By JEREMY INIFIRI
In Auki
