The tropical cyclone between Vanuatu and New Caledonia has been named Irene by the Fiji Meteorology office, says the Samoa Met Office.
The system is moving southeastward and is expected to continue moving in this general direction over the next 48 hours, passing between Vanuatu and New Caledonia.
Damaging gale force winds of (46 mph) with gusts up to 62 mph) were expected to continue to affect the area within 162 miles) northeast of the center of the system and were expected to further increase in the next 12 to 24 hours.
Samoa’s meteorology office says the convergence zone remains within the vicinity of Samoa and such weather pattern is responsible for deteriorating weather that impacted the group with heavy downpours and gusty winds at times throughout the evening.
The latest satellite data signify the movement of deep convective activities just North of the group, resulting in easing weather conditions as observed recently.
However, the system is predicted to maintain showery activities over the group for today with periods of heavy falls and thunderstorms possible. Expect gusty winds at times.
Potential Impacts
Heavy downpours with poor visibility, foggy and slippery roads over mountain passes and ranges, pooling near roadsides and waterways. Expect gusty periods during rain. Flooding and landslides are possible.
