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Severe tropical cyclone Winston kills at least 5 in Fiji

Xinhua, February 21, 2016 Adjust font size:

Five people have been confirmed killed by severe tropical cyclone Winston that left a path of destruction overnight in Fiji, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama confirmed Sunday.

Winston, a category 5 tropical cyclone - the highest possible level - swept through Fiji between the Pacific island country's main island of Viti Levu and northern island of Vanua Levu with wind gusts of over 320 kilometers per hour, tearing roofs, uprooting trees and cutting power supply as well as communications.

The government has declared a 30-day state of natural disaster and imposed a nationwide curfew. Schools around the country have been directed to be closed for a week to allow school managements and parents to clean up schools and homes.

The curfew remains in effect until 5:30 a.m. Monday, Bainimarama said, adding that the move is aimed at protecting lives and property.

Evacuation centers across the country have been open to the public, and disaster relief teams have been working hard to help people get back to normal life.

Authorities are assessing the extent of property damage.

No immediate report of casualty or injury of Chinese nationals in Fiji was received, an official of the Chinese embassy in Fiji told Xinhua. Endit