New Caledonia: Tropical Cyclone Gita to pass near Isle of Pines Feb. 15

Event

Fiji’s Meteorological Service is forecasting that Tropical Cyclone Gita will pass near New Caledonia on the afternoon (local time) of Thursday, February 15. According to predictions on February 14, Gita will pass near the Isle of Pines as a Category 4 storm, bringing winds of up to 165 km/h (102 mph), with gusts up to 230 km/h (143 mph). The storm is also expected to bring significant rain and waves, which could cause flooding in low-lying areas.

Context

Cyclone Gita brought severe flooding and associated damages to Samoa and American Samoa before striking Tonga, causing severe damage. Samoa declared a state of emergency, and US President Donald Trump signed an emergency declaration for American Samoa on February 11.

Cyclone season in the region typically lasts from November to April but storms can occur outside this period.

Advice

Individuals present in New Caledonia are advised to monitor local weather reports and follow all instructions as issued by local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders). 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 all foodstuffs discarded.