French Polynesia: Futuna under lockdown May 11 due to cyclone

Event

Tropical Cyclone Ella intensified into a Category 2 storm in the early hours of Wednesday, May 10, and is currently moving westwards. As of 14:00 (local time) on Thursday, May 11, Ella was some 125 km (80 mi) east of Futuna Island. The authorities subsequently issued their highest level weather alert at 17:30 on Thursday, asking residents to stay indoors, avoid all travel, stay away from windows due to airborne debris, and to monitor the situation.

Ella is forecast to pass 50 km (30 mi) south of Futuna Island during the evening of Thursday, May 11, and could intensify into a Category 3 storm in the coming hours.

Flight and ferry disruptions are possible.

Context

A Category 3 storm’s winds can be highly destructive, with gusts reaching up to 224 km/h (140 mph). Significant roofing loss and structural damage, which can create dangerous airborne debris, are possible.

Advice

Individuals present in Futuna and other nearby islands 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.