Gita Aftermath

Tongatapu (the main island) took a direct hit from cyclone Gita last night starting at somewhere around 7:00 p.m.  The brunt of the storm hit us somewhere around 9:30 -10:00 p.m. and lasted for about 4 1/2 hours.  There was still wind and rain until about 6:30 a.m.  There is still a light wind and misty rain but we are hoping it stops completely very soon.

We never lost electricity and that helped make us feel secure.  Our water is out this morning so we're glad we are somewhat prepared for that.

Our internet is slow and spotty but at least we have some connection to the outside world.  Yes it was a long night and perhaps it was a blessing that we were busy battling the water (as were many of the senior missionaries).  We didn’t have too much time to worry about what was actually going on outside.  Entire reinforced cinderblock buildings were destroyed here on campus and roofs and trees were blown off, uprooted or just snapped into.  We had several palm trees come down on building here but evidently they are not too heavy as they were just laying across the roof.  

We can’t get out because of all of the downed trees and power lines but reports from our missionaries are trickling in.  The missionaries on the outer islands were spared the brunt of the storm and seem to all be well.   We have not heard from any missionaries that they were harmed.  Since they were together in groups we would have heard immediately as cell phone service seems to be working everywhere.

We still have electricity and our internet is slow but functioning.  I ventured out just a little ways and was in tears at the destruction I saw, entire homes with children just standing around looking at what used to be their shelter.  I know this will be bad but I think the people fared well in general.  Our meeting houses were packed with people looking for shelter.

We’re trying to figure out where to start helping but I thought I’d take just a minute to post a brief message.

Prayers are still needed and we feel so much love.

Now the real work begins.  Here are a bunch of photos from around Liahona.  No captions but they may not be needed.but I wanted to get something out.