19 Feb 2019

Oma causes widespread damage to Solomons

7:37 am on 19 February 2019

Cyclone Oma has caused extensive damage to the Solomon Islands and officials are concerned for food security and health in some southern provinces.

Cyclone Oma 16-2-19

Cyclone Oma 16-2-19 Photo: Wikimedia Commons / NASA - Aqua MODIS Satellite

The cyclone started near Solomon Islands two weeks ago, bringing heavy rain and rough seas.

The director of the National Disaster Management Office, Loti Yates, said there were no casualties.

The Director of National Disaster Management Office, Loti Yates.

The Director of National Disaster Management Office, Loti Yates. Photo: SPREP

Damage had been reported in Makira, Malaita and Temotu provinces with minor damage on Guadalcanal, he said.

"It has been quite bad. The communities have not even recovered from the first weather event in December/January," Mr Yates said.

"It is just an ongoing impact to the communities. Especially of concern here would be food security and health."

A damage assessment from Oma should be completed in the next two weeks, he said.