South Pacific – Fiji –  At 1500 GMT,Tropical Cyclone Tomas waslocated approximately 170 nm east-northeast of Nadi, Fiji and the center of Tomas is approximately 60 miles off the east coast of Vanua Levu. Tomas is tracking to the south with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph and gusts of up to 160 mph, Tomas is a dangerous category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale of 1 to 5. Tomas will begin to weaken in the next 12 to 24 hours while tracking to the south then to the southeast.

For the island of Vanua Levu, this looks to be a near miss, however expect widespread damage to occur due to coastal flooding from the storm surge, inland flooding due to torrential rains, and minor to major structural damage due to high winds.  The infrastructure will be heavily damaged and there are reports of power outages. 

However for some of the eastern Islands to include Taveuni, Tomas may pass directly over inflicting widespread damage.

Currently, Fiji is in shut down mode as the nation braces itself for Tomas. All businesses and companies nationwide including banks, postal and telecommunication services, public transport and schools will be closed Monday. All civil servants with the exception of those providing essential services have been told to stay home and take cover. 

South Pacific – At 1500 GMT, Tropical Cyclone Ului was located approximately 500 nm west-northwest of Vanuatu, has slowly tracked westward at 04 kts over the past six hours.  With maximum sustained winds of 150mph and gusts up to 185, this is a dangerous category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale.  Fortunately, this storm is tracking to the west away from any major landmass.  After 12 to 24 hours, a turn to the south is expected.  Interests in the region, including Queensland, Australia should monitor the progress of this impressive storm. 

The main threat currently from Ului would be heavy rains and high surf to the southern Solomon Islands. 

Severe Weather Advisories is a subscription based service provided by the Swinden Group to corporations and business travelers so that they are prepared for severe weather that may negatively impact business and travel.

The Swinden Group provides companies and organizations security, investigations, and risk management services worldwide.

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