Tonga Meteorological Services has issued a strong wind warning and small craft advisory for several parts of the kingdom’s coastal waters.
In an advisory released at 7pm on Saturday, January 10, the Met Service said the warning remains in force for Haʻapai, Tongatapu, ʻEua, Tele-ki-Tonga, and Tele-ki-Tokelau coastal waters.
Mariners are being urged to exercise extreme caution, as strong winds are expected to create hazardous sea conditions, particularly for small vessels.
The Met Service said a trough lies over most parts of the kingdom, bringing cloudy periods with occasional showers to Tongatapu, ʻEua and Haʻapai tonight and tomorrow.
For the Niuas, light to moderate east to northeasterly winds are expected, becoming variable at times. Conditions will be mainly fine, with cloudy periods and a few showers.
For Vavaʻu and Haʻapai, light to moderate east to southeast winds are forecast. Weather will be cloudy at times with occasional showers and the possibility of isolated thunderstorms.
For Tongatapu and ʻEua, light to moderate southeast winds are expected. Conditions will be cloudy with occasional showers, heavy at times with isolated thunderstorms, becoming fine about tomorrow.
Fishermen, inter-island transport operators, and recreational boat users are advised to delay voyages where possible and closely monitor further updates from Tonga Meteorological Services.
Authorities remind the public that small craft are especially vulnerable in these conditions and that safety should be prioritised as unsettled weather continues to affect the region.
