Alert: Heavy Flooding in French Polynesia (January 23, 2017)

January 23, 2017

Alert – Heavy Flooding in French Polynesia

French Polynesia has been hit by heavy flooding, causing delays to travelers, and damage throughout Tahiti and Moorea.

Radio New Zealand reports:

“There has been no loss of life from the flooding but substantial damage to homes and infrastructure.

Many streets in Papeete have been flooded and a bridge along the northwestern coastal road collapsed, cutting the main road around the island.

Schools on the two islands will remain closed tomorrow to continue the clean-up.

The international airport is closed until further notice as crews try to remove debris from the runway.

An Air France plane from Los Angeles was forced to divert to the Cook Islands.”

Additionally, the U.S. Department of State – Consular Services posted an update on Facebook:

“U.S. citizens traveling to French Polynesia are advised that the government has declared a state of natural disaster as the result of severe flooding. Many streets in Papeete have been flooded, power has been lost in some areas, and a bridge along the northwestern coastal road has collapsed. The flooding has damaged water mains as well. The international airport is closed until future notice as crews try to remove debris from the runway, and incoming flights have been diverted.”