The impact of the cyclone [Heta, 2004,] created widespread power outages, scattered debris, and caused personal property damage, resulting in the displacement of more than 1,200 residents.

The weather events left many residents homeless. Dozens of people were required to evacuate to temporary shelters, and over 100 homes were destroyed.

The damage from the cyclone caused an evacuation of 140 residents to relief shelters, thirteen of which were opened after the storm.

“[p]otential need for the relocation of our population and the resulting loss of spiritual connection to the land our families have occupied for centuries,”

Massive evacuation of residential areas may be required.

Mitigation strategies include Continue to conduct island evacuation drills.