Cyclone Sarai

Last updated
Map key
Saffir–Simpson scale
  Tropical depression (≤38 mph, ≤62 km/h)
  Tropical storm (39–73 mph, 63–118 km/h)
  Category 1 (74–95 mph, 119–153 km/h)
  Category 2 (96–110 mph, 154–177 km/h)
  Category 3 (111–129 mph, 178–208 km/h)
  Category 4 (130–156 mph, 209–251 km/h)
  Category 5 (≥157 mph, ≥252 km/h)
  Unknown
Storm type
Disc Plain black.svg Tropical cyclone
Solid black.svg Subtropical cyclone
ArrowUp.svg Extratropical cyclone, remnant low, tropical disturbance, or monsoon depression

During December 20, the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS) started to monitor an area of low pressure, located near the Solomon Islands for the possibility of tropical cyclogenesis. [3] Over the next few days, they continued to monitor the system and assessed its potential to become a tropical cyclone. During December 23, the FMS reported that the area of low pressure had developed into a tropical disturbance and assigned it the designator 03F, while it was located about 630 km (390 mi) to the west of Tuvalu. [4] [5] At this time the system was poorly organised with deep atmospheric convection, displaced to the north and east of its broad and elongated low-level circulation. [4] [6] The disturbance was also located underneath an upper ridge of high pressure within a favourable environment for further development, with low to moderate vertical windshear and warm sea surface temperatures of 29–30 °C (84–86 °F). [4] [6] The FMS expected at this time that the disturbance would track just to the west of the Yasawa and Mamanuca Islands, before turning and moving southeastwards to the south of Kadavu towards the southern Lau Islands. [5] However, it was noted that the movement of tropical cyclones could be erratic within the region and that some weather models were predicting that the system would make landfall on Viti Levu. [5] [7]

Over the next couple of days, the system moved southwards and gradually developed further with its overall organisation improving, before it was classified as a tropical depression by the FMS during December 25. [8] [9] After being classified as a tropical depression, the system continued to develop, with its outflow improving and deep convection wrapping on to the systems low level circulation center. [10] During December 26, the United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center initiated advisories on the depression and designated it as Tropical Cyclone 04P, before the FMS reported that the system had become a Category 1 tropical cyclone on the Australian tropical cyclone intensity scale and named it Sarai. [11] [12] [13] At this time, Sarai was being steered southwards to the west of Fiji, along the edge of a near-equatorial ridge of high pressure and the jetstream. [11] [13] Over the next couple of days, the system gradually intensified further and was classified as a Category 2 tropical cyclone during December 27, while it was located around 220 km (135 mi) to the west of Nadi, Fiji. [14] [15] As the system turned south-eastwards later that day, the JTWC noted that there was significant uncertainty in the model guidance over Sarai's future track, as a trough of low pressure approached the ridge of high pressure and weakened it. [16] [17] In particular, the ECMWF and NAVGEM models showed that the system would meander near Viti Levu or move northwards over Fiji, while other models showed that the system would move eastwards towards Fiji's Lau Islands and Tonga or northeastwards towards American Samoa. [16] [17]

During December 28, as Sarai passed about 100 km (60 mi) to the south of Fiji's Kadavu Island, the FMS estimated that the system had peaked as a Category 2 tropical cyclone with 10-minute sustained winds of 110 km/h (70 mph). [15] [18] During that day as the system continued to move eastwards the system briefly developed an eye, while the model guidance came into better agreement over Sarai's future track. [19] The JTWC also estimated that Sarai had peaked with 1-minute sustained winds of 140 km/h (85 mph), which made it equivalent to a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale. [19] Over the next couple of days, the system gradually weakened as it was steered eastwards towards Tonga, with its low level circulation center becoming partially exposed and atmospheric convection significantly decreased as vertical wind shear increased. [20] [21] During December 30, the FMS reported that Sarai had weakened into a Category 1 tropical cyclone, before it passed over the Tongan island groups of Ha'apai and Tongatapu later that day. [22] [23] [24] The system subsequently rapidly decayed during the next day, with atmospheric convection was displaced over 90 km (55 mi) to the southeast of the systems ragged and fully exposed low level circulation center. [25] As a result, the JTWC issued their final advisory on Sarai, while the FMS reported that had degenerated into a tropical depression. [25] [26] [27] The remnant tropical depression continued to move east-southeastwards and passed about 215 km (135 mi) to the southeast of the island nation of Niue later that day. [28] The system was last noted by the FMS during January 2, while it was located about 180 km (110 mi) to the southeast of Rarotonga in the Cook Islands. [29]

Preparations

Fiji

Sarai strengthening west of Fiji on December 27 Sarai 2019-12-27 0140Z.jpg
Sarai strengthening west of Fiji on December 27

During December 25, after 03F had become a tropical depression, the FMS issued a gale warning for the Fijian dependency of Rotuma and warned that gale-force winds were possible on the island within the next 24 hours. [30] They also warned of heavy and frequent rain showers, rough to heavy seas, damaging northerly swells and noted that sea flooding of low-level coastal areas was expected. [30] At the same time a tropical cyclone alert and a heavy rain warning were issued for the rest of the Fijian islands. [30] Over the next few days, the FMS gradually replaced the tropical cyclone alert, with gale and storm warnings for various islands in the archipelago, including Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Kadavu and Taveuni. [31] [32] The FMS also issued various flood alerts, flood and flash flood warnings for low-lying areas, small streams and areas adjacent to major rivers in the northern, central and western division.

Ahead of Sarai impacting the island nation, national and international flights and all shipping services were cancelled, while others were brought forward by several hours to avoid the system's effects. [33] [34] [35] [36] The National Disaster Management Office also activated its emergency shelters and advised people to have their "disaster kits" ready, while the Ministry of Health and Medical Services suspended their national measles vaccination campaign. [33] [37] Flash flood warnings issued by the FMS prompted the evacuation of 360 people to 15 shelters in the city of Lautoka and on the island of Ovalau. [38] the NDMO reported 2,121 people sought shelter in 55 shelters throughout Fiji. [1] [39] Police presence was increased in all Fijian divisions to both facilitate evacuation and rescue operations and bolster crime patrol during the storm. [40]

Tonga

During December 27, the Tonga Meteorological Service activated its Fua'amotu Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre and issued a tropical cyclone alert for the whole of Tonga on Sarai. [41] [42] This alert was kept in force over the next couple of days, along with strong wind and heavy rain warnings as well as flash flood advisories. [42] [43] A gale warning was issued for the island groups of Tongatapu and Eua as well as the coastal waters of Tele-Ki-Tonga and Tele-Ki-Tokelau during December 28. [44] A gale warning was subsequently issued for Vava'u and Ha'apai during December 30, as it appeared that Sarai was now moving towards the island groups. [45] [46] In preparation for Sarai impacting the island nation, international flights to and from Tonga were cancelled, while evacuation centers in the island groups were opened and stocked with emergency supplies by the Tonga Red Cross Society and other relief agencies. [47]

Niue and the southern Cook Islands

During December 31, the FMS issued a gale warning for the island of Niue, as winds of between 55–65 km/h (35–40 mph) were expected to impact the island nation. [48] Heavy rain, heavy swells and sea flooding were also predicted to impact parts of the island nation, while flooding of low-lying coastal areas was also expected. [48] At this time, the system was located about 460 km (285 mi) to the west-southwest of Niue. [48] This warning was cancelled by the FMS later that day as Sarai weakened into a tropical depression, however, it was still expected to produce strong winds of up to 55 km/h (35 mph) on the island.

On January 1, the FMS issued a gale warning for the Southern Cook Islands as winds of between 45–75 km/h (30–45 mph) were expected to impact the islands. [49] Heavy rain, squally thunderstorms, high seas and heavy swells were also predicted to impact the island nation, while flooding of low-lying coastal areas was also expected. [49] At this time, the system was located about 130 km (80 mi) to the south-southwest of the island of Rarotonga and was moving towards the east-southeast at about 9 km/h (5.6 mph). [49] As a result of these conditions, the Cook Islands Police Service warned residents to exercise extreme caution and avoid beachfront areas on the western side of Rarotonga, including the seawall in Nikao. [50] [51]

Impact

Fiji

Sarai impacted Fiji between December 26 - 30, where it was responsible for two deaths and at least FJ$5 million (US$2.3 million) in damage. [15] [2]

Strong winds and heavy rain associated with Sarai started to impact Fiji's northern division during December 26, with rainfall totals of 144 mm (5.7 in), 117 mm (4.6 in) & 116 mm (4.6 in) recorded at the weather stations in Saqani, Vaturekuka and at Udu Point. [15] Over the next few days, gale to storm-force winds as well as heavy rain impacted western and southern Fiji. [52] Strong winds caused power outages in parts of Nadi. [40] Widespread power outages also afflicted Fiji's Central, Northern, and Western Divisions. One person was hospitalised after being struck by a falling tree. [53] One person drowned in strong currents off Kadavu Island while another person drowned crossing a flooded road in Vunidawa. [1] A vehicle carrying six passengers was swept away in Naqelewai after attempting to cross a flooded bridge, though all were uninjured. [54] Widespread flooding occurred in low-lying areas. [52] On Matuku Island, sustained winds topped out at 74 km/h (46 mph) on the morning of 29 December with gusts to 93 km/h (58 mph). [55] In the Nadarivatu District, 327 mm (12.9 in) of rain was recorded over a 24-hour period between December 27–28; 126 mm (5.0 in) was recorded at Nadi International Airport over the same timeframe. [56] Rough surf was experienced in Fijian waters, including offshore Levuka. [57]

While the initial damage assessment indicated damage to critical infrastructures were minimal, tropical Sarai disrupted services for water supply, electricity, public transport and road accessibility. Damages to agricultural commodities may-be substantial in some areas. At the time of the production of this report, Unfortunately, there were two confirmed casualties of tropical cyclone Sarai, one in Naitasiri and the other in Kadavu, both victims of drowning. [1] [58]

Tonga

Sarai weakening over Tongatapu on December 31 Sarai 2019-12-31 0116Z.jpg
Sarai weakening over Tongatapu on December 31

The centre of Sarai passed over Tongatapu, Tonga's main island, on December 31. [59] Flights connecting to Nuku'alofa via Fua'amotu International Airport were disrupted, affecting an estimated 1,220 travellers. Damage was generally minor on the island; flooding affected areas with poor drainage and winds knocked down power lines. [60] Sarai produced a waterspout that moved onshore and damaged homes in Ha‘ateiho on Tongatapu on December 30. The roof of a church and a store were also damaged by the tornado, which lasted for 2-3 minutes. [61] Another waterspout touched down in the Ha’apai island group but caused no damage. [60] Ahead of the system impacting Tonga, evacuation centres were set up, however, there were no reports of anyone seeking shelter. [62] There were also no reports of any injuries, deaths, while minor damage was reported, with some flooding reported in areas with poor drainage, fallen power lines, and flattened vegetation. [62] The major damage so far was caused by the tornado were unknown, which ripped through Ha'ateiho homes on Monday, but there were no injuries or deaths reported.

Niue and the southern Cook Islands

The system passed, approximately 215 km (135 mi) to the southeast of the island nation of Niue. [28] However, the damages, if any were minor. [28]

Various people ignored the warnings imposed in the southern Cook Islands and lined the beaches to take photos of the storm while others drove their vehicles and bikes through the high waves that had come in over the seawall and covered the road. [50] One person was seen climbing over the seawall and into the direct path of the storm's impact, however, there were no reports of any injuries. [50] Large trees on the island were uprooted, snapped, and scattered across properties by strong winds, while coconuts, vegetation, and debris brought in by the tide were also scattered across properties. [50] Boats docked within Avatiu Harbour were severely impacted, while the police vessel Te Kukupa smashed its mooring and had to be taken to the northern side of the island to wait out the storm. [50]

Retirement

Due to its effects on several islands, the cyclone name, Sarai, was retired and replaced with Samadiyo for future usage.

See also

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">1997–98 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 1997–98 South Pacific cyclone season was the most active South Pacific tropical cyclone season on record, with 16 tropical cyclones occurring within the South Pacific basin between 160°E and 120°W. The season started earlier than normal with 3 systems developing before the official start of the season on November 1, 1997, while the final system of the season dissipated on May 3, 1998, after the season had officially ended on April 30. During the season 50 people died as a result of tropical cyclones, with the deadliest being Cyclone Martin with 27 known deaths. The strongest tropical cyclones during the season were Cyclone Ron and Cyclone Susan as both were estimated to have minimum pressures of 900 hectopascals (26.6 inHg), and were the most intense tropical cyclones on record in the South Pacific Ocean until Cyclone Zoe in 2002–03. After the season ended, 11 names had their names either removed or retired from the lists of names, after they caused significant impacts to South Pacific islands.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2005–06 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2005–06 South Pacific cyclone season was an event in the annual cycle of tropical cyclone formation. It began on November 1, 2005, and ended on April 30, 2006. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the southern Pacific Ocean east of 160°E. Additionally, the regional tropical cyclone operational plan defines a tropical cyclone year separately from a tropical cyclone season, and the "tropical cyclone year" runs from July 1, 2005, to June 30, 2006.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2008–09 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2008–09 South Pacific cyclone season was a below average tropical cyclone season, which featured six named tropical cyclones compared to an average of about nine. Ahead of the season officially starting on November 1, 2008, the Island Climate Update tropical cyclone outlook predicted that the season, would feature an average risk of tropical cyclones impacting the South Pacific between 160°E and 120°W. The first tropical disturbance of the season developed to the northeast of the Samoan Islands on December 1, however, it remained weak and was last noted during the next day.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2009–10 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2009–10 South Pacific cyclone season began on December 3, 2009 with the formation of Tropical Disturbance 01F, 32 days after the cyclone season had officially begun on November 1, 2009. The season ended on April 30, 2010. These dates conventionally delimit the period of each year when most tropical cyclones form in the southern Pacific Ocean east of 160°E. Additionally, the regional tropical cyclone operational plan defines a tropical cyclone year separately from a tropical cyclone season; the "tropical cyclone year" began on July 1, 2009 and ended on June 30, 2010. Tropical cyclones between 160°E and 120°W and north of 25°S are monitored by the Fiji Meteorological Service. Those that move south of 25°S are monitored by the Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre in Wellington, New Zealand. The first tropical disturbance of the season formed on December 3, about 1015 km (700 mi) to the north of Suva, Fiji and later intensified into Tropical Cyclone Mick. The last system, 15F, dissipated on April 5 of the following year.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2012–13 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2012–13 South Pacific cyclone season was a below average tropical cyclone season, with five tropical cyclones occurring within the basin between 160°E and 120°W. The season officially ran from November 1, 2012, to April 30, 2013, however the last tropical disturbance was last noted on May 1, as it moved into the subtropics. During the season, tropical cyclones were officially monitored by the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS), Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) and New Zealand's MetService. The United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) and other national meteorological services including Météo-France and NOAA also monitored the basin during the season. During the season there were 22 significant tropical disturbances assigned a number and a F suffix by the FMS's Regional Specialized Meteorological Center in Nadi, Fiji (RSMC Nadi), including Severe Tropical Cyclone Sandra which moved into the basin from the Australian region on March 9. The BoM, MetService and RSMC Nadi all estimated sustained wind speeds over a period of 10-minutes and used the Australian tropical cyclone intensity scale, while the JTWC estimated sustained winds over a 1-minute period, which are subsequently compared to the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHS).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">1994–95 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 1994–95 South Pacific cyclone season was one of the least active South Pacific tropical cyclone seasons on record, with only four tropical cyclones officially occurring within the South Pacific Ocean basin between 160°E and 120°W. The season ran from November 1, 1994, until April 30, 1995, with the first disturbance of the season developing on November 12 and the last disturbance leaving the base on March 5. The most intense tropical cyclone during the season was Tropical Cyclone Violet, which briefly existed within the basin. After the season, the name William was retired from the tropical cyclone naming lists.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2013–14 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2013–14 South Pacific cyclone season was a slightly below average tropical cyclone season, with six tropical cyclones occurring within the basin between 160°E and 120°W. The season ran from November 1, 2013, to April 30, 2014, however, the first four tropical disturbances occurred during October 2013 and were included as a part of the season. During the season, tropical cyclones were officially monitored by the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS), Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) and New Zealand's MetService. The United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) and other national meteorological services including Météo-France and NOAA also monitored the basin during the season. During the season there were 21 significant tropical disturbances were assigned a number and an "F" suffix by the FMS's Regional Specialized Meteorological Center in Nadi, Fiji (RSMC Nadi), including the remnants of Tropical Cyclone Hadi from the Australian region. The BoM, MetService and RSMC Nadi all estimated sustained wind speeds over a period of 10-minutes and used the Australian tropical cyclone intensity scale, while the JTWC estimated sustained winds over a 1-minute period, which are subsequently compared to the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHS).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2014–15 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2014–15 South Pacific cyclone season was a slightly-below average tropical cyclone season, with five tropical cyclones occurring within the basin between 160°E and 120°W. The season officially ran from November 1, 2014, to April 30, 2015. During the season, tropical cyclones were officially monitored by the Regional Specialized Meteorological Center (RSMC) in Nadi, Fiji and the Tropical Cyclone Warning Centers in Brisbane, Australia and Wellington, New Zealand. The United States Armed Forces through the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) also monitored the basin and issued unofficial warnings for American interests. RSMC Nadi attaches a number and an F suffix to tropical disturbances that form in or move into the basin while the JTWC designates significant tropical cyclones with a number and a P suffix. RSMC Nadi, TCWC Wellington and TCWC Brisbane all use the Australian Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale and estimate windspeeds over a period of ten minutes, while the JTWC estimated sustained winds over a 1-minute period, which are subsequently compared to the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHWS).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Cyclone Evan</span> Category 4 cyclone in the South Pacific in 2012

Severe Tropical Cyclone Evan was considered to be the worst tropical cyclone to affect the island nation of Samoa since Cyclone Val in 1991 and was the strongest storm to impact the main South Pacific islands until Winston in 2016. The system was first noted on December 9, 2012, as a weak tropical depression about 700 km (435 mi) to the northeast of Suva, Fiji. Over the next couple of days, the depression gradually developed further before it was named Evan on December 12, as it had fully developed into a tropical cyclone. During that day the system moved toward the Samoan Islands and gradually intensified, before the system slowed and severely affected the Samoan Islands during the next day with wind gusts of up to 210 km/h (130 mph).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2015–16 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2015–16 South Pacific cyclone season was one of the most disastrous South Pacific tropical cyclone seasons on record, with a total of 50 deaths and $1.405 billion in damage. Throughout the season, 8 systems attained tropical cyclone status, whilst 5 became severe tropical cyclones. The most notable cyclone of the season by far was Winston, which attained a minimum pressure of 884 hPa, and maximum ten-minute sustained winds of 175 mph (280 km/h), making it the most intense tropical cyclone on record in the Southern Hemisphere. Winston went on to devastate Fiji, causing $1.4 billion in damage and 44 deaths across the country.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2016–17 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2016–17 South Pacific cyclone season was the least active South Pacific cyclone season since the 2011–12 season, with only four tropical cyclones occurring within the South Pacific Ocean to the east of 160°E. Two of the four systems developed into severe tropical cyclones on the Australian tropical cyclone intensity scale. The season officially ran from November 1, 2016 until April 30, 2017. However, May featured two post-season systems: Donna and Ella, of which the former was the strongest post-season South Pacific tropical cyclone ever recorded in that month. Overall, 22 tropical disturbances were monitored by a combination of the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS), Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) and New Zealand's MetService.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2017–18 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2017–18 South Pacific cyclone season was a slightly below-average season that produced 6 tropical cyclones, 3 of which became severe tropical cyclones. The season officially began on November 1, 2017, and ended on April 30, 2018; however, a tropical cyclone could form at any time between July 1, 2017, and June 30, 2018, and would count towards the season total. During the season, tropical cyclones were officially monitored by the Fiji Meteorological Service, MetService and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, while the United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) also monitored the basin and issued warnings for American interests. The FMS attaches a number and an F suffix to significant tropical disturbances that form in or move into the basin, while the JTWC designates significant tropical cyclones with a number and a P suffix. The BoM, FMS and MetService all use the Australian Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale and estimate wind speeds over a period of ten minutes, while the JTWC estimates sustained winds over a 1-minute period, which are subsequently compared to the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHWS).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2018–19 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2018–19 South Pacific cyclone season was a below-average season that produced 5 tropical cyclones, 2 of which became severe tropical cyclones. The season officially runs from November 1, 2018, to April 30, 2019; however, a tropical cyclone could have formed at any time between July 1, 2018, and June 30, 2019, and would count towards the season total. During the season, tropical cyclones were officially monitored by the Fiji Meteorological Service, Australian Bureau of Meteorology, and New Zealand's MetService. The United States Armed Forces through the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) also monitored the basin and issued warnings for American interests. RSMC Nadi attaches a number and an F suffix to tropical disturbances that form in or move into the basin, while the JTWC designates significant tropical cyclones with a number and a P suffix. The FMS, the BoM and MetService all use the Australian Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale and estimate wind speeds over a period of ten minutes, while the JTWC estimates sustained winds over a 1-minute period, which are subsequently compared to the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHWS).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2019–20 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2019–20 South Pacific cyclone season was a slightly above-average season in which tropical cyclones formed within the South Pacific Ocean to the east of 160°E. The season officially ran from November 1, 2019, to April 30, 2020, however a tropical cyclone could form at any time between July 1, 2019, and June 30, 2020, and would count towards the season total. The season began on November 22 with the formation of Tropical Cyclone Rita, which would later become a severe tropical cyclone. The season has been near-average in terms of activity, with 8 tropical cyclones and 4 severe tropical cyclones forming during the season. The season featured Cyclone Harold, the first Category 5 severe tropical cyclone in the basin since Cyclone Gita, and one of the strongest since Cyclone Winston. During the season, tropical cyclones are officially monitored by the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS), Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and New Zealand's MetService. The United States Armed Forces through the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) also monitors the basin and issue unofficial warnings for American interests. The FMS attaches a number and an F suffix to tropical disturbances that form in or move into the basin while the JTWC designates significant tropical cyclones with a number and a P suffix. The FMS, BoM and MetService all use the Australian Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale and estimate wind speeds over a period of ten minutes, while the JTWC estimated sustained winds over a 1-minute period, which are subsequently compared to the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHWS).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2020–21 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Tropical cyclone season

The 2020–21 South Pacific cyclone season was an average season where most tropical cyclones formed within the South Pacific Ocean to the east of 160°E. The season officially started on November 1, 2020, and officially ended on April 30, 2021, however a tropical cyclone could form at any time between July 1, 2020, and June 30, 2021, and would count towards the season total. During the season, tropical cyclones will be officially monitored by the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS), Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), New Zealand's MetService. The United States Armed Forces through the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) will also monitor the basin and issue unofficial warnings for American interests. RSMC Nadi attaches a number and an F suffix to tropical disturbances that form in or move into the basin while the JTWC designates significant tropical cyclones with a number and a P suffix. RSMC Nadi, TCWC Wellington and TCWC Brisbane all use the Australian Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale and estimate windspeeds over a period of ten minutes, while the JTWC estimated sustained winds over a 1-minute period, which are subsequently compared to the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHWS).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Cyclone Tino</span> Category 3 South Pacific cyclone of 2020

Severe Tropical Cyclone Tino was a tropical cyclone which itself and an associated convergence zone caused significant damage across ten island nations in the South Pacific Ocean during January 2020. First noted as a tropical disturbance during January 11, to the southwest of Honiara in the Solomon Islands, the system gradually developed over the next few days as it moved eastwards in between the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu prior to being named Tino as it approached Fiji during January 16. Continuing to track south-eastward, Tino continued strengthening as it passed near Fiji, bringing copious amounts of rainfall to the area. Whilst losing latitude, the system continued to strengthen and peaked as a category 3 tropical cyclone on January 17, with signs of an eye forming. Shortly after peak intensity, Tino was impacted by high wind shear and decreasing sea surface temperatures, triggering a weakening trend. Tino moved out of the tropics shortly thereafter and became an extratropical cyclone during January 19.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Cyclone Yasa</span> Category 5 South Pacific cyclone in 2020

Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasa was the second Category 5 severe tropical cyclone in 2020 after Harold in the 2019–20 South Pacific cyclone season. Yasa was the second tropical disturbance, as well as the first tropical cyclone and severe tropical cyclone of the 2020–21 South Pacific cyclone season. Yasa was first noted as an area of low pressure to the north of Port Vila in Vanuatu during December 10. Over the next few days, the system gradually developed further as it absorbed Tropical Depression 01F, before it was classified as a tropical cyclone and named Yasa by the Fiji Meteorological Service on December 13.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2021–22 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Cyclone season in the South Pacific Ocean

The 2021–22 South Pacific cyclone season was a near average tropical cyclone season within the South Pacific Ocean to the east of 160°E. The season officially started from November 1, 2021, and officially ended on April 30, 2022, however a tropical cyclone could form at any time between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, and would count towards the season total. During the season, tropical cyclones will be officially monitored by the Fiji Meteorological Service, Australian Bureau of Meteorology and New Zealand's MetService. The United States Armed Forces through the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) will also monitor the basin and issue unofficial warnings for American interests. The FMS attaches a number and an F suffix to tropical disturbances that form in or move into the basin while the JTWC designates significant tropical cyclones with a number and a P suffix. The BoM, FMS and MetService all use the Australian Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale and estimate windspeeds over a period of ten minutes, while the JTWC estimated sustained winds over a 1-minute period, which are subsequently compared to the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHWS).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Cyclone Cody</span> Category 3 tropical cyclone in 2022

Severe Tropical Cyclone Cody was a strong tropical cyclone in the South Pacific which caused widespread damage in Fiji. The second tropical cyclone and first severe tropical cyclone of the 2021–22 South Pacific cyclone season, Cody was first noted by the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS) on 5 January as Tropical Disturbance 03F. The tropical depression killed one person, and over 4,500 people were evacuated. On 10 January, the system was upgraded to a Category 1 tropical cyclone by the FMS, receiving the name Cody. While the FMS recorded a peak intensity of 130 km/h (80 mph), the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) only recorded a peak intensity of 95 km/h (60 mph). Cody was the first tropical cyclone in 2022.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2022–23 South Pacific cyclone season</span> Cyclone season in the South Pacific Ocean

The 2022–23 South Pacific cyclone season was a below-average but very destructive tropical cyclone season that featured one of the costliest tropical cyclones in the Southern Hemisphere on record. The season officially started on November 1, 2022, and ended April 30, 2023; however, a tropical cyclone could form at any time between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023, and would count towards the season total. During the season, tropical cyclones were officially monitored by the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS), Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and New Zealand's MetService. The United States Armed Forces through the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) also monitored the basin, issuing unofficial warnings for American interests. The FMS attaches a number and an F suffix to tropical disturbances that form in or move into the basin while the JTWC designates significant tropical cyclones with a number and a P suffix. The BoM, FMS and MetService all use the Australian Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale and estimate windspeeds with a period of approximately ten minutes, while the JTWC estimates sustained winds over a 1-minute period, which are subsequently compared to the Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHWS).

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 "Tropical Cyclone Sarai claims two lives as more than 2,000 evacuate in Fiji". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. ABC News. December 28, 2019. Retrieved December 28, 2019.
  2. 1 2 Krishna, Kathrin (January 8, 2020). "FRA confirms $5 million damage from TC Sarai". Fijian Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved January 11, 2020.
  3. ↑ Tropical Cyclone 5-Day Outlook: December 20, 2019 (PDF) (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 20, 2019. Retrieved December 27, 2019.
  4. 1 2 3 Tropical Disturbance Summary December 24, 2019 00z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 24, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  5. 1 2 3 "Low pressure intensifies into Tropical Disturbance, TD03F" (PDF) (Press release). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 24, 2019.
  6. 1 2 Significant Tropical Weather Advisory for the Western and South Pacific Oceans December 23, 2019 19z (Report). United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center. December 23, 2019.
  7. ↑ Pratap, Ritika (December 25, 2019). "TD03F expected to become TC around midday tomorrow". Fiji Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved December 29, 2019.
  8. ↑ Tropical Disturbance Advisory A1 December 25, 2019 00z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 25, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  9. ↑ Tropical Cyclone Formation Alert December 25, 2019 03z (Report). United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center. December 25, 2019.
  10. ↑ Tropical Disturbance Advisory A6 December 26, 2019 06z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 26, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  11. 1 2 Tropical Cyclone Cyclone 04P Warning 2 December 26, 2019 15z (Report). United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center. December 26, 2019.
  12. ↑ Tropical Cyclone Naming Bulletin December 26, 2019 12z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 26, 2019. Archived from the original on December 26, 2019.
  13. 1 2 Tropical Disturbance Advisory A7 December 26, 2019 15z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 26, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  14. ↑ Tropical Disturbance Advisory A10 December 27, 2019 08z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 27, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  15. 1 2 3 4 Fiji Climate Summary: December 2019 Volume 40: Issue 12 (PDF) (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. January 9, 2020. Archived from the original (PDF) on January 9, 2020. Retrieved January 9, 2020.
  16. 1 2 Tropical Cyclone Cyclone 04P Warning 6 December 27, 2019 15z (Report). United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center. December 27, 2019.
  17. 1 2 Tropical Cyclone Cyclone 04P Warning 7 December 27, 2019 21z (Report). United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center. December 27, 2019.
  18. ↑ Tropical Disturbance Advisory A14 December 28, 2019 09z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 28, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  19. 1 2 Tropical Cyclone Cyclone 04P Warning 10 December 28, 2019 15z (Report). United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center. December 28, 2019.
  20. ↑ Tropical Cyclone Cyclone 04P Warning 14 December 29, 2019 15z (Report). United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center. December 29, 2019.
  21. ↑ Tropical Cyclone Cyclone 04P Warning 16 December 30, 2019 03z (Report). United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center. December 29, 2019.
  22. ↑ Tropical Disturbance Advisory A23 December 30, 2019 12z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 30, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  23. ↑ Tropical Disturbance Advisory A25 December 31, 2019 00z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 31, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  24. ↑ Tropical Disturbance Advisory A26 December 31, 2019 06z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 31, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  25. 1 2 Tropical Cyclone Cyclone 04P Warning 21 December 31, 2019 09z (Report). United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center. December 31, 2019.
  26. ↑ Tropical Disturbance Advisory A27 December 31, 2019 12z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 31, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  27. ↑ Gale Warning 039 December 31, 2019 23z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 31, 2019. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  28. 1 2 3 Tropical Cyclone Sarai Running Best Track (Report). United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center. Retrieved January 21, 2020.
  29. ↑ Tropical Disturbance Summary January 2, 2020 00z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. January 2, 2020. Retrieved July 30, 2020.
  30. 1 2 3 Special Weather Bulletin Number 1 for Fiji and Rotuma on Tropical Depression 03F December 25, 2019 09z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 25, 2019.
  31. ↑ Special Weather Bulletin Number 5 for Fiji and Rotuma on Tropical Depression 03F December 26, 2019 09z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 26, 2019.
  32. ↑ Special Weather Bulletin Number 12 for Fiji and Rotuma on Tropical Cyclone Sarai December 27, 2019 06z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 27, 2019.
  33. 1 2 "Fiji Braces for Cyclone Sarai". Agence France-Presse. December 26, 2019. Retrieved January 15, 2020.
  34. ↑ Reece, Lena (December 27, 2019). "All shipping services to cease until further notice". FBC News. Retrieved January 23, 2020.
  35. ↑ "Hundreds flee lowlands as Cyclone Sarai sweeps past Fiji". Phys.org. December 27, 2019. Retrieved January 23, 2020.
  36. ↑ "Category 1 Cyclone Sarai strengthening as it approaches Fiji". Radio New Zealand. December 27, 2019. Retrieved December 27, 2019.
  37. ↑ Nacei, Luke (December 27, 2019). "TC Sarai: Health ministry suspends measles vaccination campaign". The Fiji Times. Retrieved December 28, 2019.(subscription required)
  38. ↑ "Fiji braces for Cyclone Sarai". The Straits Times. Singapore: Singapore Press Holdings. Agence France-Presse. December 27, 2019. Retrieved December 27, 2019.
  39. ↑ Fennell, Jordan; Wibawa, Tasha (December 27, 2019). "Tropical Cyclone Sarai lashes Fiji as warnings issued for flash flooding, gale force winds". Sydney, Australia. Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved December 27, 2019.
  40. 1 2 "TC Sarai situation update". FBC News. Suva, Fiji: Fijian Broadcasting Corporation Limited. Fijian Broadcasting Corporation. December 27, 2019. Retrieved December 27, 2019.
  41. ↑ "Activation of Fua'amotu Tropical Cyclone Warnings Centre Notice" (Press release). Tonga Meteorological Service. December 27, 2019.
  42. 1 2 "Tropical Cyclone Advisory Number 2 for Tonga on Tropical Cyclone Sarai (Category 1)" (Press release). Tonga Meteorological Service. December 27, 2019.
  43. ↑ "Tropical Cyclone Advisory Number 5 for Tonga on Tropical Cyclone Sarai (Category 2)" (Press release). Tonga Meteorological Service. December 28, 2019.
  44. ↑ "Tropical Cyclone Advisory Number 9 for Tonga on Tropical Cyclone Sarai (Category 2)" (Press release). Tonga Meteorological Service. December 28, 2019.
  45. ↑ "Tropical Cyclone Advisory Number 19 for Tonga on Tropical Cyclone Sarai (Category 2)" (Press release). Tonga Meteorological Service. December 30, 2019.
  46. ↑ "Vava'u and Ha'apai on alert" (Press release). Tonga Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change & Communications. December 29, 2019.
  47. ↑ "Tongan authorities are preparing as tropical cyclone Sarai approaches". Radio New Zealand . December 30, 2019. Retrieved December 30, 2019.
  48. 1 2 3 Special Weather Bulletin Number 2 for Niue on Tropical Cyclone Sarai December 31, 2019 08z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 31, 2019.
  49. 1 2 3 Special Weather Bulletin Number 1 for [the] Southern Cooks on Tropical Depression 03F January 1, 2020 23z (Report). Fiji Meteorological Service. January 1, 2020.
  50. 1 2 3 4 5 "Storm slams west coast". Cook Islands News. January 3, 2020.
  51. ↑ "Cook Islands battered by ex-tropical Cyclone Sarai". TVNZ. January 1, 2020.
  52. 1 2 "'Howling wind, flying debris' as Cyclone Sarai hammers Fiji". Al Jazeera. Al Jazeera Media Network. Agence France-Presse. December 28, 2019. Retrieved December 28, 2019.
  53. ↑ "Tropical Cyclone Sarai wreaks havoc in Fiji". The Fiji Times. Suva, Fiji: Fiji Times Limited. Radio New Zealand. December 30, 2019. Retrieved December 30, 2019.(subscription required)
  54. ↑ Nacei, Luke (December 27, 2019). "TC Sarai: Naqelewai villagers washed away by strong currents". The Fiji Times. Retrieved December 28, 2019.(subscription required)
  55. ↑ "TC Sarai Southeast of Kadavu and Continues Moving East Towards Southern Lau" (PDF) (Media Release). Fiji Meteorological Service. December 29, 2019. p. 4. Retrieved December 28, 2019.
  56. ↑ TC Sarai Anticipated to Track Close to Matuku Early Tomorrow Morning (PDF) (Media Release). Nadi, Fiji: Fiji Meteorological Service. December 28, 2019. p. 4. Retrieved December 28, 2019.
  57. ↑ Nacei, Luke (December 27, 2019). "TC Sarai: Strong currents experienced in Levuka". The Fiji Times. Suva, Fiji: Fiji Times Limited. The Fiji Times. Retrieved December 28, 2019.(subscription required)
  58. ↑ "Fiji assesses damage left in Cyclone Sarai's wake". Radio New Zealand. 2019-12-31. Retrieved 2021-03-11.
  59. ↑ "Tropical Cyclone Sarai passing over Tonga's main island". Wellington, New Zealand. Radio New Zealand. December 31, 2019. Retrieved December 31, 2019.
  60. 1 2 Gee, Eleanor (December 31, 2019). "TC Sarai causes minor damage on Tongatapu". Matangitonga. Nuku'alofa, Tonga: Vava'u Press. Retrieved December 31, 2019.
  61. ↑ "Tornado hits Ha'ateiho". Matangitonga. Nuku'alofa, Tonga: Vava'u Press. December 30, 2019. Retrieved December 31, 2019.
  62. 1 2 "Tonga cancels cyclone alert for Kingdom". Radio New Zealand . January 3, 2020. Retrieved January 9, 2020.
Tropical Cyclone Sarai
Sarai 2019-12-28 0205Z.jpg
Sarai near peak strength, to the south of Fiji on December 29
Tropical cyclones of the 2019–20 South Pacific cyclone season
2019-2020 South Pacific cyclone season summary.png
2
Rita
DI
02F
2
Sarai
3
Tino
DI
05F
3
Uesi
DI
07F
DI
08F
1
Vicky
2
Wasi
2
Gretel
5
Harold
This page is based on this Wikipedia article
Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply.
Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.