Natural Disaster: Tropical Cyclones in Fiji

What is a Tropical Cyclone?

A tropical cyclone is a rapidly rotating storm system characterised by a low-pressure centre, strong winds, and thunderstorms that produce heavy rainfall. In Fiji, cyclones are a serious and recurring threat, especially during the official cyclone season (November to April).

Fiji has faced multiple severe tropical cyclones, including:

• Tropical Cyclone Winston (2016) – Category 5, the most powerful recorded in the Southern Hemisphere to make landfall with 44 deaths, thousands homeless and schools completely destroyed.
• Tropical Cyclone Yasa (2020) – Category 5, widespread devastation in Vanua Levu.
• Tropical Cyclone Harold (2020) – Category 4, affected the southern islands and maritime zones.

Evacuation Centres

Click the link below to view the updated list of active evacuation centres across Fiji:

www.ndmo.gov.fj/evacuation-centre/

Emergency Contacts