Fiji: Tropical Cyclone Ella to affect northern islands May 12

Event

Tropical Cyclone Ella intensified into a Category 2 storm in the early hours of Wednesday, May 10. As of 20:00 (local time) on Thursday, May 11, the Fiji Meteorological Office forecast that Ella would continue moving westwards before passing about 150 km (90 mi) from Fiji’s northern-most island, Cikobia, by mid-afternoon on Friday, May 12.

Ella is also likely to intensify into a Category 3 storm by then, bringing potentially damaging winds to the islands of Vanua Levu, Taveuni, and Cikobia. Wind gusts of up to 120 km/h (75 mph) are expected. Subsequent flight and ferry disruptions are thus possible.

Context

A Category 3 storm’s winds can be highly destructive, with gusts reaching up to 224 km/h (140 mph). Significant roofing loss and structural damage, which can create dangerous airborne debris, are possible.

Advice

Individuals present in Fiji are advised to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities, to keep abreast of the situation via local media outlets, and to be prepared for transportation disruptions until the situation normalizes. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and foodstuffs disposed of.