Tonga: Tropical cyclone warning February 11-12

Event

Tongan weather officials issued a cyclone warning on Sunday, February 11, as Tropical Cyclone Gita approached the islands. The storm is expected to strike overnight on Sunday, into Monday, February 12. Officials announced that the storm could reach a category four (157-200 km/h, 99-130 mph) before making landfall.

Authorities have advised individuals to secure property and move from low-lying areas due to the likelihood of storm surge and heavy flooding. Significant transportation disruptions are expected in the coming days.

Context

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

Advice

Individuals present in Tonga are advised to follow all instructions as issued by local authorities. 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.