Vanuatu: Tropical Cyclone Donna forecast to hit May 5-8

Event

As of 05:00 (local time) on Wednesday, May 3, Tropical Cyclone Donna was a category 2 storm located about 205 km (127 mi) northeast of Sola. The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department issued a tropical cyclone warning for Torba, Penama, and Sanma at 06:15 on Thursday, May 4. It is expected to hit the islands with sustained winds of 85 km/h (53 mph) with gusts up to 165 km/h (103 mph). According to the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, Tropical Cyclone Donna is expected to intensify to hurricane force and move from north to south over Vanuatu from Friday, May 5, through Monday, May 8. Disaster authorities issued a blue warning for the area, urging people to prepare their homes, cut down dangerous trees, charge their phones, and have flashlights, food, and water ready.

Heavy rainfall and flash and coastal flooding is also expected in northern and central Vanuatu. Landslides and road closures may occur. Flight disruptions are possible at Bauerfield International Airport (VLI).

Context

Cyclone season in Vanuatu occurs from November to April, but tropical storms and cyclones can occur during other months.

Advice

Individuals present in areas affected by the cyclone warning 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.