The hard lessons of Soudelor

Two years ago on Aug. 2, the island of Saipan experienced one of the most devastating storms to ever hit the island. Fortunately, there were no fatalities, but the magnitude of the disaster was such that President Obama issued a disaster declaration for the CNMI.

Aug. 2 doesn’t just serve as a reminder. It is also a lesson for individuals who lived through it and are still getting back on their feet as a result of the damage brought by Typhoon Soudelor.

In two years since Soudelor hit Saipan, the Saipan Tribune went into the community to see how life has been since the destruction of Soudelor and to find out what people got from the experience.

Typhoon Soudelor taught us a valuable lesson and made us realize the importance of hard work and effort while we are getting back on our feet.
—Donnatella Guzman, As Lito Saipan

We learned how to rebuild our homes and how to make our island better and now everyone is aware of the necessities when preparing for a typhoon.”
—Kath Tuquero, As Lito Saipan

Typhoon Soudelor was a depressing moment for us but it helped us learn how to live with what we have.
—Sherlyou Indalecio Zandueta, San Vicente

Soudelor taught the community to not take typhoon warnings lightly…it was an incredible eye-opening experience for us all.”
—Eliezha Mendoza, San Vicente

I learned how to be patient because of waiting in line for gas. I learned the importance of farming due to lack of resources.
—Norman Quichocho, Kagman

I learned that volunteering is fun and a great way to give back to the community.
—Stephanie Gruy, Chalan Kanoa

No matter what the situation is, it’s always best to be prepared.”
—Kena Muna, Dandan

I learned to accommodate and assist people whose homes were destroyed …don’t be afraid to offer help.
—James Manglona, Kagman

I learned that in a small island, there are big hearts.
—Chelsea Cayabyab, Chalan Kanoa

I learned to charge my phone, preserve water, the importance of mosquito nets, and that cement tiles are cold enough to [feel like there is] aircon.
—Maria Reyes, Koberville

I learned to conserve power. Before Soudelor came, we abused it.”
—James David, Koblerville

First, I pray it doesn’t happen again because of all the suffering but I learned that we should have been more prepared…and I learned how ready the community was to help one another.”
—Saipan Mayor David M. Apatang

I learned that islanders are the ones who step up, not just when their families are in need but when the whole community is in need, and that really came through with Soudelor.
—Maxine Lazlo, CARE

Soudelor was a learning experience. It taught us how destructive Mother Nature can be… Soudelor brought everyone together.
—Rep. Greg Sablan