Traditional knowledge key to building cyclone-resistant homes in Fiji

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2022-09-19 12:42

New Zealand; Pacific

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Traditional Fijian houses, or bure, are more likely to withstand tropical cyclones than contemporary, timber framed houses, and can be easily rebuilt using locally sourced natural materials. Researchers from Massey University found that bure comply with a number of internationally recommended cyclone-resistant structural features, including relatively short walls, limited wall openings, elevated rock base, and a hipped roof with steep slopes and small eaves. Additionally, when the researchers talked to the community of Navala after Cyclone Winston, the community claimed that the traditional houses performed better during the cyclone and that most damages occurred due to flying debris from contemporary-built houses. Authors of the study say that while some villages appear to have lost their traditional building knowledge, it should be incorporated into disaster relief and “Build Back Better” initiatives to keep communities safe.