South Pacific: Cyclone season begins November 1

Event

The South Pacific cyclone season officially begins on November 1 and runs until the end of April. Powerful storms can hit Polynesia, Micronesia, Papua New Guinea, Australia, and New Zealand during this time. Meteorological forecasts by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology estimate that the western part of this region (including Australia and Papua New Guinea) will experience seven tropical cyclones this season, while the eastern region (including New Zealand, Samoa, and French Polynesia) will see four.

Storms can cause serious flooding and wind damage, often leading to power outages and widespread transportation disruptions.

Advice

Individuals present in affection regions are advised to stay abreast of information regarding storms via the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) and/or local media. In the event of a storm, individuals present in areas forecast to be affected should stock up on enough food and water to last several days, follow all instructions issued by local authorities, and distance themselves from the coast and other bodies of water. If an evacuation order is given, leave immediately; otherwise, remains indoors until authorities have indicated that the storm has passed, keeping mind that the "eye" of the storm is marked by calm, clear conditions but is followed by the most powerful and destructive part of the storm.