Location: Islands of Torba, Penama, Sanma, and Malampa
Event: The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazard Department (VMGHD, http://vmgd.gov.vu) has issued a warning as Tropical Cyclone (TC) Lola (Category 5) approaches the archipelago. As of 3:00 p.m. local time October 24, TC Lola is about 175 km east southeast of Sola and 100 km northeast of Maewo. Winds close to the center of TC Lola are estimated at 215 km/hr (115 knots), gusting up to 189 km/hr (102 knots) within 16 nautical miles from the center of the system and expected to affect the islands of Torba, Sanma, Penama, and Malampa in the next 24 hours.
The VMGHD further advises that heavy rainfalls with flash flooding are expected over low-lying areas and areas close to riverbanks, including coastal flooding over Vanuatu today and continuing tomorrow. Very rough seas with heavy to phenomenal swells are expected over all Vanuatu waters.
Domestic and international flights to and from Vanuatu are canceled today and tomorrow, October 25. Consult with your airline for updated flight schedules (Departures – Port Vila Airport (vli.vu)).
U.S. citizens are advised to monitor local media and government authorities throughout the duration of the storm. U.S. citizens who experience an emergency during the storm may contact the Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, at the contact information below.
Actions to take:
- Monitor local media for updates: Warning (gov.vu)
- Notify friends and family of your safety.
- Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Seek secure shelter.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Phone: +675 308 9100
Email: ConsularPortMoresby@state.gov
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usembassyportmoresby/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/usembassypom
U.S. State Department – Consular Affairs
+1 888 407 4747 or +1 202 501 4444
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
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