Cyclone Oma approaches Vanuatu's northern provinces

Vanuatu's Meteorological Service says there is a red alert in place today as Cyclone Oma approaches the country's northern provinces.

Damaging gale force winds of 75km with gusts up to 100km are expected to affect Torba, Sanma and Penama provinces for the next 12 to 24 hours.

Heavy rainfall bringing flash flooding over low lying areas and river banks, as well as coastal floodings will affect the countries three northen most provinces today.

Head forecaster Fred Jockley said Cyclone Oma was expected to reach the northern provinces of Torba and Sanma today between midday and 6pm and it may yet intensify into a Category 2 system, before heading over cooler waters which would weaken its effects.

[Source: TVNZ]