The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazard Department (VMGHD, http://vmgd.gov.vu) has issued a warning as Tropical Cyclone (TC) Judy approaches the archipelago. As of 8 a.m. local time February 28, the center of the storm was forecast to arrive off the coasts of Maewo and Pentecost around 4 p.m. local time February 28. TC Judy is forecast to cross Efate and track close to Port Vila around 4 a.m. local time March 1, before continuing South-Southeast toward Erromango and Aneityum. The VMGHD predicts destructive, storm-force winds to reach 60 knots (110 km/hr or 68 mi/hr) as TC Judy crosses Efate and Port Vila. The VMGHD further advises that heavy rainfalls and thunderstorms are expected over northern provinces of Vanuatu with flash flooding expected in low lying areas and areas close to the river banks, including coastal flooding. Seas will become rough to very rough with heavy swells expected over northern and central waters of Vanuatu.
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.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- 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).