As Cyclone Urmil tracks southward, Tonga faces rising threat levels while Fiji battles heavy flooding left in the storm’s wake.
Fiji Authorities said the cyclone was located about 520 kilometres southwest of Nadi at 6am, bringing intense rainbands and strong winds across multiple divisions.
Although the system is not expected to track directly over Fiji, the Fiji Meteorological Service said Urmil was moving southeast at about 30km/h and generating widespread downpours.
Officials warned motorists to avoid flooded roads and to remain alert to changing conditions.
Warnings Strengthen Across Tonga
In Tonga, the cyclone now poses a growing threat as it continues to track east‑southeast across the region.
The Fuaʻamotu Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre said at 1pm on Sunday that cyclone warnings remain in force for Tongatapu, ʻEua, Tele‑ki‑Tonga and Tele‑ki‑Tokelau.
At midday, Cyclone Urmil was positioned about 880 kilometres west‑southwest of Nukuʻalofa, moving east‑southeast at roughly 36km/h.
The system is carrying sustained winds of 100km/h, with gusts reaching up to 140km/h near its centre.
Gale warnings also remain active for Haʻapai, Tongatapu and ʻEua, while Vavaʻu is currently under a strong wind warning. Authorities say wind speeds are expected to increase gradually as the cyclone draws closer.
Heavy rain warnings and flash‑flood advisories remain in effect for Vavaʻu, Haʻapai, Tongatapu and ʻEua. The warnings have raised concerns about flooding in low‑lying and flood‑prone communities.
Marine conditions are also expected to become hazardous as the system progresses. Storm warnings and damaging swells are still in force for Tele‑ki‑Tonga and Tele‑ki‑Tokelau waters, with gale warnings in place for Haʻapai, Tongatapu and ʻEua coastal waters.
Rough Seas Expected
All coastal waters across Tonga remain under a small‑craft advisory, with authorities urging fishers and small boat operators to stay ashore. Large swells and rough seas could make navigation extremely dangerous.
Forecasters say associated heavy rain, strong winds and damaging gale‑ to storm‑force conditions will affect several island groups over the next 24 hours.
They are urging residents in exposed areas to secure property, monitor weather updates and follow official safety instructions.
Emergency authorities in Tonga warn that conditions may deteriorate quickly as the cyclone continues its approach. They advise communities to prepare for potential power outages, flash flooding and disruptions to inter‑island travel.
