A state of emergency has been declared in northern and eastern parts of Fiji after cyclone Tomas wreaked havoc in the Pacific island nation, reports said Tuesday.
Fiji's National Disaster Council said troops would take food, water and other essentials to areas worst-hit by the category four cyclone which is expected to weaken as it moves away.
National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) Director Pajiliai Dobui said he had received reports of "a few" deaths in the devastating cyclone.
"Those who have experienced other cyclones say this is the longest and the strongest they have come across - and the most destructive," Dobui said.
Around 17,000 people moved into evacuation centers as the cyclone battered Fiji destroying crops and generating giant waves in which a few buildings washed away.
Lau group of islands and Vanua Levu, the second largest island in the South Pacific nation, that suffered the maximum damage with fears over the fate of Cikobia and Qelelevu islands which remained incommunicado since Monday.
Communication and powerlines were disrupted in several parts of Vanua Levu where some healthcare facilities and roads were damaged.
Holiday was declared for schools with public services remaining suspended following the disaster. However, international flights have resumed operations from the country's main airport in Nadi.
NDMO spokesman Anthony Blake said an aerial survey would be undertaken on Wednesday to assess the damage.
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