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Forecasters say Cyclone Vaianu is becoming increasingly likely to strike New Zealand this weekend, raising concerns about dangerous conditions.
MetService has warned the storm could bring destructive, potentially life-threatening winds to the North Island on Sunday. A preliminary severe weather watch covering the entire island was issued on Wednesday due to the growing threat.
If the cyclone makes landfall, it is expected to deliver powerful winds along with heavy rain and hazardous coastal conditions in some regions. Authorities say certain areas may be escalated to orange or red warnings as the system draws closer, and additional rain alerts are likely.
However, uncertainty remains around the cyclone’s exact path, making it too early to determine which parts of the North Island will be hardest hit. Meteorologists stress that the extent of the impact will depend heavily on the storm’s track, with clearer forecasts expected in the coming days.
Currently positioned south of Fiji, Cyclone Vaianu is a Category 3 system with winds reaching up to 130 km/h near its centre. Experts warn it has the potential to cause significant disruption, including power outages, fallen trees, landslides, road closures, and isolated communities.
NIWA modelling also suggests the cyclone could reach the North Island by Sunday, with the heaviest rainfall likely in northern and eastern areas, depending on its trajectory.
Meanwhile, another powerful storm, Cyclone Maila, has intensified to Category 5 strength in the Pacific, with extremely strong winds near its core. It is expected to track toward Far North Queensland over the weekend.
Separate from the cyclones, heavy rain warnings remain in place for parts of New Zealand, including Tasman and Bay of Plenty, where residents are being urged to take precautions, particularly in areas at risk of flooding or landslides.-TIN Bureau