A heavy rain warning and flash flood advisory remains in force for Ha'apai land areas tonight as a trough lies over Ha'apai and is approaching Vava'u tonight.
In a 7:00pm bulletin tonight, Wednesday, 20 March, the Fua'amotu Weather Forecasting Centre said that Ha'apai may expect possible flooding to low lying areas due to heavy rain. The forecast is for light to moderate southeasterly winds that tend northwesterly in the evening. Cloudy and overcast with occasional rain, heavy at times with isolated thunderstorms.
Scattered showers in Vava'u may be heavy at times.
For coastal waters, a strong wind warning and small craft advisory remains in force for Ha'apai, Tongatapu, 'Eua, Tele-ki-Tonga and Tele-ki-Tokelau coastal waters.
Flood risk assessments
Tonga's National Disaster Risk Management Committee (NDRMC) held meetings throughout this week in response to the heavy rain and flood alerts issued by the Tonga Meteorological Services (TMS) for Tongatapu, ‘Eua, Vava’u, and Ha’apai spanning from last Monday to Thursday
The Prime Minister's Office said the meetings aimed “to promptly assess any flash flooding impacts resulting from the ongoing heavy rainfall patterns and to address immediate concerns within affected communities.”
“Updates on the evolving flood situation were discussed.”
The NDRMO activated the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC), conducted rapid initial assessments, and deployed two Interagency assessment teams to identify affected areas, impacts, required actions and necessary resources.
The Prime Minister has urged local authorities to initiate preparations for potential flood- related emergency. This includes inspecting evacuation facilities and arranging for the evacuation of families if deemed necessary.
“With the forecast of upcoming rainfall, NDRMO urges caution on inundated roads to prevent accidents and minimize the impact on neighboring homes. Drivers are reminded to drive slowly and heed signage on flooded roads. Should homes become inundated, citizens are encouraged to seek shelter in designated evacuation centers and halls.
“In case of urgent evacuation needs, Tonga Fire & Emergency Services can be reached at 999, Tonga Police at 922 and the National Emergency Operation Centre at 08006366 (Toll Free),” the Prime Minister's Office advised yesterday.
