Two dead as Cyclone Maila hits Bougainville

Two women have been confirmed dead in Bougainville as Tropical Cyclone Maila continues to batter the region with strong winds and heavy rainfall.

NBC News in Buka received reports of the casualties and widespread destruction linked to the severe weather, as conditions continue to worsen across the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

In Buka on Thursday, April 9, a young woman lost her life after a tree fell on her during strong winds.

In South Bougainville, an elderly woman in Orumoi in the Konnou Constituency died after being struck by a falling timber while attempting to flee from the intense winds. The woman is originally from Siuru village in Lule Constituency.

Meanwhile, a six-year-old boy from Laguai Village in Buin was injured after being struck by a falling coconut tree brought down by strong winds. He was initially treated at Buin Hospital before being transferred to Buka Hospital on Thursday, where he is now receiving further medical care.

Across the region, reports circulating on social media indicate widespread damage, including flooding rivers, landslides, washed-out roads, and bridges at risk of collapse due to flash flooding.

Coastal communities are also experiencing powerful waves battering shorelines, while atoll islands are reportedly bearing the brunt of intense winds. However, communication with the atolls remains limited, making it difficult to fully assess the extent of the damage.

In South Bougainville, a vehicle was swept away by floodwaters at the Pagara River, highlighting the dangers posed by rapidly rising rivers.

Reports also emerged in North Bougainville, at Tinputz that flooding along the Ramazon River has washed away the Buka approach section of the bridge.

Another incident of a vehicle belonging to a contractor engaged in repair works on the bridge was nearly swept away by the fast-moving waters after bursting its banks and dragging the truck loaded with repair materials that was parked near the river.

In Central Bougainville, there are reports of landslides, homes being destroyed by strong winds, and sections of the road washed away in Panguna.

There are growing concerns over food security, with extensive damage reported to food gardens across affected communities.

An unconfirmed report has also emerged of a boating incident along the west coast of Bougainville, though details remain limited.

Authorities are continuing to collect and compile reports from the most affected areas as the full extent of the damage unfolds.

Residents are being urged to limit travel by both sea and land as hazardous conditions persist. Strong winds and heavy rainfall continue across Bougainville, with authorities advising people to remain alert and prioritize their safety.