Australian Government Issues 'Pre-Alert' for New Caledonia Regarding Tropical Cyclone Oma
Category: Natural Disasters
Severity: 3 (Moderate)
Source: Drum Cussac
02/17/2019 (New Caledonia) - Description - On Sunday, 17 February, the Australian Governments 'Smart Traveller' service issued a countrywide 'pre-alert' for the forecasted effects of Tropical Cyclone Oma. Meteorological experts are forecasting that while Oma will not directly hit New Caledonia, the tropical storm will pass dangerously close. Oma is currently recorded as a category three tropical cyclone (on the Fiji scale), with sustained winds of 120 km/h (75mph). This is the equivalent to a category one Atlantic hurricane. While the heaviest of the rains are expected to remain off the northern coast, there is the potential for localized flooding, mudslides and possible wind damage and power outages. As the week continues, Oma could strengthen to a Category three severe tropical cyclone, the equivalent to a category two hurricane. Due to this, by Monday, 18 and Tuesday, 19 February, wind gusts of up to 130 km/h (80mph) could be experienced in Grand Terre, along with possible flash flooding and wind damage. Residents of Grand Terre, Poum, Tiabet and Ouegoa have been warned to prepare for prolonged power outages.
Members in New Caledonia are advised to monitor local media sources and tune into local radio stations for weather-related updates and to remain apprised of disruption and warnings in their particular area of operations. Travellers should familiarise themselves with local emergency protocols and heed any directives issued by local authorities. Minimise time spent in low-lying flood-prone areas, valleys and unstable slopes susceptible to flash floods and landslides and coastal regions during the passing of the storm system.
Copyright © 2024 Drum Cussac
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