Protection in the Face of Storms
Please pray for the welfare of our TSC projects in the Pacific, particularly the New Ireland Cluster (and possibly the Polynesian Outlier Cluster) in PNG and the people who live in these areas as they are currently dealing with a natural disaster that has struck their region.
On Tues, Dec 9 a phenomenon known as “King Tides” began to strike the northeastern coast of New Ireland Island in PNG and other nearby island areas. So far the tidal waves have destroyed over 30 villages along a 280 km stretch of New Ireland coastline. The King Tides are creating high tide surges 6 feet (2 meters) above norm for this time of year with 10-16 (3-5 meter) high waves. The surges are ongoing and are predicted to continue through this weekend. The abnormally high tides and waves have destroyed homes, businesses, clinics, schools and village churches sweeping them 50 meters inland. Most rain tanks and gardens have also been destroyed. Villages have been abandoned, with residents fleeing inland to higher ground. Currently it is estimated that over 50,000 people on New Ireland alone have lost their homes and are without adequate food, water, shelter and medical care. Smaller outlying islands to the north of New Ireland have also been severely affected as well and authorities are attempting to evacuate the residents of those islands to areas where they can receive relief care. Australia and the Red Cross have come in to help. Information on any injured, missing or possible deaths is sketchy at this time.