Solomon Islands and Fiji: Cyclones threaten South Pacific islands

On the South Sea islands east of Australia: between the Fiji Islands and the neighbouring state of Vanuatu, Cyclone Vaianu is sweeping across the South Pacific.

Meanwhile, Cyclone Maila is making its way near the Solomon Islands. Both storms are accompanied by gale-force winds and torrential rain.

In Fiji, the authorities have issued warnings of gusts of wind, flash floods and flooding. Schools and universities remain closed. Low-lying areas are particularly at risk. Vaianu is expected to strengthen into a Category 3 cyclone during the course of Tuesday.

Although the eye of the storm will pass over the sea between Fiji and Vanuatu, the authorities remain on high alert. It was only in 2020 that the devastating Cyclone Yasu caused severe damage to the island nation and claimed several lives.

Cyclone Maila off the Solomon Islands, on the other hand, shows little sign of moving for the time being. However, it is expected to move westwards towards the Australian coast in the coming days.