Tropical Cyclone Tam has strengthened into a Category 1 system near Vanuatu.
Tonga is closely monitoring its path while New Zealand braces for potential severe weather impacts in the coming days.
As of 7pm, April 15, the cyclone was located approximately 420 km south-southeast of Port Vila, Vanuatu, and 1,490 km west of Nuku’alofa, Tongatapu.
The storm has sustained winds of 35-40 knots (70-80 km/h) and is moving south-southeast at 18 knots.
While Tonga faces no immediate threat over the next 24-48 hours, authorities maintain close surveillance.
The Tonga Meteorological Service will issue its next advisory at 9am on Wednesday, April 16.
New Zealand’s NIWA Weather warns that Tropical Cyclone TAM could bring heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas to the upper North Island from late Wednesday through Thursday.
Although the cyclone’s center is expected to remain west of Cape Reinga, severe weather conditions may still affect the region.
Urgent Advice for Tongan Communities in NZ
With a large Tongan population in Auckland and surrounding areas, residents are urged to:
- Monitor updates from MetService NZ and local emergency advisories.
- Prepare for possible power outages, travel disruptions, and coastal flooding.
- Tonga Meteorological Service: Next update at 9am, April 16.
- NZ Civil Defence: Further warnings expected as the cyclone nears.
Authorities in both nations are coordinating to ensure public safety as Cyclone TAM progresses. Residents in affected areas should stay informed and take necessary precautions.
