Tropical Cyclone Urmil is currently making its way east-southeast at a speed of approximately 22 kilometers per hour (12 knots), creating perilous marine conditions in open waters. As of 5 a.m., the cyclone is positioned about 480 kilometers southwest of Kadavu and remains classified as a Category 2 system, continuing its southeast trajectory while staying south of the Fiji Group.
The cyclone is generating significant wave heights of up to 6.7 meters (22 feet), which poses serious risks for maritime operations. Active rainbands and strong north-westerly winds are impacting the western and southern regions of Fiji, intensifying the hazardous conditions.
Forecasts indicate that, by midnight tonight, wind conditions will deteriorate further in numerous areas. In the Western Division, including the Yasawa and Mamanuca Groups, as well as Kadavu and surrounding smaller islands, strong north to north-west winds are anticipated with average speeds around 45 kilometers per hour and gusts that could reach up to 75 kilometers per hour.
In the Macuata and Bua provinces, winds are expected to be moderate to fresh from the north to northwest, with the potential to strengthen later in the day, reaching average speeds of 40 kilometers per hour and gusts up to 60 kilometers per hour.
Residents in coastal and maritime communities are strongly advised to take precautionary measures as rough to very rough seas are predicted across the affected areas, keeping safety as a top priority amid these challenging weather conditions.
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