Posted on 01 March 2023
On Wednesday, Tropical Cyclone Judy was graded a Category 3 as it neared Vanuatu, and later in the day advanced to a Category 4, and it is reported that it may intensify to a category 5 on Thursday.
There are heavy rainfalls and thunderstorms over central, southern and parts of the northern islands with flash flooding expected in low lying areas, areas close to the river banks, including coastal flooding.
A high seas warning is currently in place for open coastal waters of Vanuatu.
The Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) has identified evacuation centres in Port Vila. The rest of Efate island and other offshore islands, the NDMO office is working closely with the Vanuatu Christian Council of Churches to use church buildings as evacuation centres.
The Council for International Development's Humanitarian Network is closely monitoring the unfolding situation and will coordinate response activities, as any needs are identified. Our thoughts and aroha are with the people of Vanuatu.