Fiji: Advisory on the Start of Cyclone Season in the South Pacific

The Fiji Meteorological Service has announced that 5 to 6 cyclones are likely to form in the South Pacific, including waters outside of Fiji, during the cyclone season from November 2024 to April 2025. Among these, 1 or 2 cyclones are expected to reach Category 3 or higher. (Tropical cyclone strength is classified in five categories, from the lowest Category 1 to the highest Category 5.)
According to the same announcement, there is a possibility that 1 or 2 cyclones of Category 3 or higher could pass through Fiji’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Even if a cyclone does not make direct landfall or is of a weaker strength, it may still cause heavy rain, flooding, and landslides, which pose a threat to life.
We urge all Japanese nationals living in Fiji, as well as those planning to travel to Pacific Island nations, to stay informed by checking weather updates and cyclone-related information (such as evacuation advisories) through TV, radio, and other sources. It is also essential to stock up on emergency supplies such as food and water in case of an emergency. Many buildings in Fiji and other Pacific island nations are simply constructed and vulnerable to cyclones, and some areas are at high risk for frequent flooding. Please assess the safety of your residence or travel destination and, if necessary, secure an evacuation location.
If cyclone damage is significant, the Japanese Embassy may contact you to check on your safety, and we ask for your cooperation. Even if charging your phone is difficult due to power outages, please ensure that you check for incoming messages (via phone or computer) at least once a day. It is also helpful to frequently communicate your safety to close relatives during emergencies.

Detailed Cyclone Forecast for the Season Issued by the Fiji Meteorological Service: You can find the detailed forecast from the Fiji Meteorological Service through the following link:
Fiji Meteorological Service: https://www.met.gov.fj/index.php?page=tcoutlook
Information Sources: Here are some useful websites to obtain weather and cyclone-related information:
- Fiji Meteorological Service Website: http://www.met.gov.fj/ (For cyclone paths and other updates)
- Fiji National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) Website: http://www.ndmo.gov.fj/
  NDMO X (formerly Twitter) Account: https://twitter.com/FijiNDMO
  For disaster measures, evacuation advisories, and evacuation center information
- Fiji Roads Authority Website: http://www.fijiroads.org/ (For road closures and other updates)
Emergency Supplies: Flooding can result in power and water outages for several days. Please try to store enough emergency supplies for about 10 days. Here is a reference list of essential emergency supplies. After a cyclone passes, there is concern about the spread of infectious diseases due to deteriorating sanitary conditions from contaminated water. In addition to preventing infections through measures like hand washing and gargling, be sure to take precautions against mosquitoes using insect repellent.
- Passport, insurance documents, cards, and cash
- Mobile phone (Keep battery charged, carry a charger, and if possible, prepare a spare battery)
- Emergency food (Non-cook items such as canned food, cookies, etc.)
- Drinking water
- Regular medications
- Flashlight, candles, matches, and lighters
- Radio
- Batteries
- Clothing and bedding (blankets, etc.)
- Utensils, cooking equipment, and fuel
Safety Check by the Japanese Embassy:
- In the event of significant cyclone damage, the Japanese Embassy may contact you for a safety check, so we ask for your cooperation. Even if power outages make charging your phone difficult, please ensure that you turn on your mobile phone or computer at least once a day and check for incoming messages such as emails.
- It is also important to frequently communicate your safety to close relatives, as this can be valuable in an emergency situation.