Tropical cyclone warning number one

Meteorological service at 9:10 pm this evening, thursday 02nd april 2020.

The special weather bulletine is now upgraded to tropical cyclone warning.

A tropical cyclone warning is current for all provinces.

At 8:00 pm this evening, tropical cyclone harold (category one) with a central pressure of 997 hectopascals was located near 9.8 degrees latitude south and 156.8 degrees longitude east. This is located approximately 71 nautical miles (132 kilometres) southwest of rendova island, western province.

Cyclone harold is moving east south east at 05 knots towards rennel and bellona province and strengthening.

Gale force winds (34 to 47 knots) (63-87 kilometres per hour) with maximum gust of 50-55 knots are expected to affect western, guadalcanal, central, south malaita, makira and rennel bellona provinces with rough seas and moderate to heavy swells (2.5 – 4.0 metres) and potential coastal flooding.

Expect winds of 25-33 knots over remaining waters and land areas. Moderate to rough seas with moderate swells.

Such bad weather may lead to possible landslide and flooding over communities living near hill slopes, close to large rivers, streams and low lying areas.

Sea travelers are urged to consider safety actions as such heavy rain can reduce visibility.

Motorists are also advised to use extreme caution when travelling on road. Do not attempt to cross rivers and large streams of unknown depth.

People should take precautionary measures as such bad weather have the potential to impact lives and properties.

Please listen to sibc and all media outlets for further updates.

The next cyclone warning will be issued at 1:30 am early tomorrow morning.