Fiji braces for Tropical Cyclone Tomas
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15 March 2010 - Fiji’s Disaster Management Authority (DISMAC) has placed all Fiji’s emergency services on full alert as the destination prepares for the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Tomas.
The cyclone is expected to make landfall on the eastern corner of Vanua Levu in the north-east of the archipelago later tonight (Monday).
The Fiji Meteorological Service said while TC Tomas was not expected to make a direct hit on the main island of Viti Levu, the area would experience strong winds, heavy rain and huge seas in coming days.
Tourism Fiji CEO Josefa Tuamoto said while the full force of the cyclone was not expected to hit the north-east until early Tuesday morning, the entire destination had gone on to high alert as early as last Friday with hotels and resorts taking all necessary steps to ensure the wellbeing of their guests, staff and property.
This included making sure all properties were fully equipped with adequate food, water and emergency medical supplies and communication services.
Air Pacific flights ex-Australia and New Zealand were continuing to operate today however Korean Air has taken the decision to cancel its Seoul-Nadi services today and tomorrow.
Air New Zealand and V-Australia too have cancelled all Fiji services until further notice.
Mr Tuamoto also advised that all cruise services operating in the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands had been cancelled with all vessels placed on cyclone moorings in Lautoka and Denarau due to anticipated heavy seas in the region.
“We are very much in a holding pattern at this moment in time. We will be advising further on the situation as more information comes to hand,” he said.
-ENDS-
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