Tropical Depression 09F is forecasted to strengthen into a tropical cyclone within the next 6 to 12 hours. The Fiji Meteorological Service reported that this system, which transitioned from a tropical disturbance overnight, was located at 6 am approximately 90 kilometers southwest of Port Vila, Vanuatu, and about 1,020 kilometers west of Nadi.
Currently, TD09F is moving south-southeast at a pace of around 15 kilometers per hour, harnessing energy from the warm Pacific waters. Once it reaches tropical cyclone status, it will be designated as Tropical Cyclone URMIL, marking it as the first named system of the 2025-2026 Tropical Cyclone Season.
Although the center of this system is projected to stay well west of Fiji, rainbands and strong to gusty north-northwesterly winds are anticipated to impact parts of the country starting tomorrow. A strong wind warning has been implemented for the waters of Yasawa and Mamanuca, as well as southwest Viti Levu. Additionally, a heavy rainfall alert has been issued for the Western Division and Kadavu, with a strong wind warning extending to land areas in those regions as wind speeds are expected to increase.
The Fiji Meteorological Service is diligently monitoring the situation and urges the public to remain updated with the latest forecasts and warnings to ensure safety. As preparations are made, there is hope that the community will stay well-informed and resilient in facing the potential impacts of the impending weather system.
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