Two cyclones, Cyclone Vaianu and Cyclone Maila, are set to hit the Pacific region this week, potentially causing havoc for Aussie travellers in Fiji.

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Australian travellers are being warned of significant disruptions as two cyclones bear down on the region, including one off the coast of Fiji.

Severe Tropical Cyclone Vaianu has intensified to a category 3 storm, posing a potential threat as it approaches the western region of the country, particularly near the popular tourist hub of Nadi.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has issued a warning to travelers, advising them to remain vigilant as parts of Fiji may experience intense winds, heavy rainfall, and sudden flooding.

Two cyclones, Cyclone Vaianu and Cyclone Maila, are set to hit the Pacific region this week, potentially causing havoc for Aussie travellers in Fiji.
Two cyclones are set to hit the Pacific region this week, potentially causing havoc for Aussie travellers in Fiji. (Weatherzone)

According to updated travel advisories, the cyclone could disrupt transportation and essential services.

“Be familiar with your accommodation’s evacuation plan. If a cyclone is nearing your location, locate the nearest shelter and adhere to the guidance of local authorities,” stated the advice on Smart Traveller.

Travelers are encouraged to reach out to their airlines or travel providers if they have concerns about potential disruptions caused by the cyclone.

The impacts of Cyclone Vaianu could be felt as far south as New Zealand.
The impacts of Cyclone Vaianu could be felt as far south as New Zealand. (Weatherzone)
It is expected to pass east of Vanuatu, another popular tourist destination with Australians, but will not make landfall in either nation, Weatherzone
But it is threatening to hit New Zealand by the weekend with Auckland, the country’s largest city, in the firing line. 

Fiji’s cyclone season extends from November through April, and the island has faced significant cyclone impacts in recent years.

In 2016, Cyclone Winston, a category 5 storm, killed 44 people as it battered the country.

Fiji was hit by three cyclones in 2021, with the most severe — Cyclone Ana — causing millions of dollars of damage and killing one person.

Australia's then-Foreign Minister Julie Bishop walks through a house destroyed by Cyclone Winston in 2016.
Australia’s then-Foreign Minister Julie Bishop walks through a house destroyed by Cyclone Winston in 2016. (Alex Ellinghausen)
Another tropical cyclone, Cyclone Maila is currently tracking off the Solomon Islands and could hit Papua New Guinea.

The category 3 storm could still hit Australia, experts have warned.
It is then expected to move towards the Far North Queensland coast by the weekend, potentially making landfall over the weekend or early next week, Weatherzone’s Anthony Sharwood said.

“At this stage, it is not known how strong the cyclone is likely to be if and when it crosses the Australian coastline.”

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