TC Maila poses a serious threat to lives and property - Solomon Islands NDMO

The strong winds and heavy rain associated with Tropical Cyclone Maila are impacting parts of Western Province in Solomon Islands.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology said Category 3 Tropical Cyclone Maila has sustained winds near the centre of 130 kilometres per hour with wind gusts to 185 kilometres per hour.

The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service said severe Cyclone Maila is slowly moving east-southeast towards the southwest of western province in the Solomon Sea and intensifying.

It said widespread heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected over all provinces.

The Solomon Star is reporting high swells and coastal flooding has impacted Vasara village on Rendova Western Province.

The village is located north of Rendova and was hit by high swells, strong wind and heavy rain over the past days.

Villagers of Vasara have been experiencing devastating swells reaching well over the shorelines and into residential areas over the past days.

Reports stated that a wooden dug-out boat including an aluminium one was lifted away by the swells while village rescuers were still securing other boats up higher ground.

A home near the beach was also shredded by the powerful force of the waves with its structure remaining.

The beach along the community sea front is currently being monitored by the villages as the bad weather continues.

Alerts

The Solomon Islands National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) said severe Tropical Cyclone Maila is now about 240km southwest of Ranogga Island and moving slowly East-Southeast.

It said the system is strengthening and poses a serious threat to lives and property.

A red alert - take action now - has been issued for Western, Choiseul and Isabel:

• Expect gale-force winds, coastal flooding (up to 6m waves), and dangerous storm surges
• Move to safe shelter and higher ground immediately
• Stay away from coastlines and rivers

An orange alert - be prepared - has been issued for Central, Malaita, Guadalcanal, Makira, Temotu, Rennell and Bellona:

• Expect heavy rain, thunderstorms, flooding, and rough seas
• Stay indoors and prepare for possible evacuations

The NDMO said the major risks associated with this severe Tropical Cyclone are:

• Landslides near hills and slopes
• Flooding in low-lying and river areas
• Very dangerous sea conditions - do not go out to sea
• Roads may flood - do not cross flooded rivers or bridges