The Office of the Ministry of Infrastructure (MOI) in ‘Eua announced yesterday evening the immediate closure of the bridge connecting ‘Ohonua and Ta’anga due to severe flooding.
A ruptured waterway between the valleys has led to mass flooding, impacting transportation. Residents are advised to remain in their assigned zones as travel is currently unsafe.
Hon. Dr. Taniela Fusimalohi, ‘Eua’s Member of Parliament and Minister for Infrastructure, highlighted the gravity of the situation. “The water flow is quite strong and affecting the bridge and blocks off any crossing,” Fusimalohi said. He also noted that his ministry is reaching out to flooded areas in Tongatapu.
The Fua’amotu Weather Forecasting Centre issued a bulletin yesterday evening indicating that a low-pressure system to the west of Tonga, is expected to remain until the weekend, bringing associated clouds, heavy occasional rain, and thunderstorms that will affect most parts of the country this week.
The rain forecast for Tongatapu and ‘Eua continues with heavy downpour, thunderstorms and flooding in low-lying areas.
Residents are urged to exercise caution and adhere to official advisories during this period of adverse weather conditions.
