Tonga: Minor damages following passage of Cyclone Keni April 11

Event

Tropical Cyclone Keni left minor damages in Tonga on Wednesday, April 11. According to local authorities, power outages have been reported on the island of 'Eua; while 'Eua hospital was damaged by strong winds. According to the Tonga Meteorological and Coast Radio Services, as of noon (local time) on April 11, Tropical Cyclone Keni was located 415 km south of Nuku'alofa, moving southeast at 43 km/h (26mph), with average wind speeds of 110 km/h (68 mph). As of 13:00 on April 11, heavy wind warnings remain in effect for Tele-Ki-Tonga and Tele-Ki-Tokelau, while a strong wind warning is in effect for Vava'u and Ha'apai. A heavy rain and flash flood warning is also in effect for Vava'u, Tongatapu, and 'Eua. Heavy rains, strong winds, and rough seas are forecast to affect Tele-Ki-Tonga and Tele-Ki-Tokelau through Thursday, April 12. Power outages and transportation disruptions are possible in the abovementioned affected areas in the coming hours.

Advice

Individuals in Tonga are advised to keep abreast of weather alerts and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities. Exercise caution if traveling in affected areas; roads may be hazardous and traffic signals may not be functioning in the event of power outages. In the event of flooding, 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.