The extensive damage caused by Cyclone Tomas, which hit the Republic of the Fiji islands this week, has resulted in a disruption in communications, and in the delivery of utilities and government services. A 3-day state of natural emergency has been declared, and there are unverified reports of loss of life. A number of residences have been destroyed by the category four storm. A call for international aid has been reported, which is a clear sign that the cyclone has inflicted serious damage upon the island nation.

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