Severe Cyclone Lola hit the north of the South Pacific state of Vanuatu, causing severe damage to buildings and agriculture. Communication with Penama province, which includes three islands, was lost last night, Prime Minister Charlot Salwai told Radio New Zealand (RNZ) today. The exact extent of the devastation is still unclear. Around 30,000 people live in the province.
At times, “Lola” was classified as a strongest category five tropical storm. It has now been downgraded to category three, according to the local Meteorological and Geological Risk Authority (VMGD). However, “destructive wind speeds” of 125 kilometers per hour and gusts of up to 185 kilometers per hour are still expected.
“Heavy rainfall with flash flooding, including coastal flooding, is expected in low-lying areas and near river banks,” the VMGD wrote. Very rough seas and strong waves are expected in all Vanuatu waters.
Canceled flight connections
Air Vanuatu has canceled all flight connections as a precautionary measure. The ships were recalled to port. The red alert was also in force in the capital Port Vila, on the island of Efate: government buildings, markets and banks remained closed until further notice.
Vanuatu, in the South Pacific, consists of about 80 islands and is located almost 1,800 kilometers east of Australia. The island state is regularly hit by hurricanes between November and April. However, “Lola” arrived exceptionally early: It was the first pre-season cyclone in the South Pacific since 1970, Australian broadcaster ABC reported.