TC Lucas

The system is positioned at the top right corner of square letter E, number 8 (E,8) in the New Vanuatu Tropical Cyclone Tracking map

Damaging gale force winds of 75km/hr gusting up to 105km/hr within 90 nautical miles from its centre are expected within 12 to 24 hours.

Destructive storm force winds of 110km/hr increasing to 160km/hr within 30 nautical miles from its centre.

VMGD says heavy rainfalls with flash flooding are expected over low lying areas and areas close to river banks, including coastal flooding over Vanuatu group.

The cyclone was located at about 375km southwest of Malekula at 5am (local time).

Winds close to the centre of the system are estimated at 110km/hr.

Damaging gale force winds of 75km/hr gusting up to 105km/hr within 30 nautical miles from its centre.

Heavy rainfall and flash flooding are expected over low lying areas and areas close to river banks including flooding over the group.

TC Lucas is moving to the southwest of Vanuatu towards New Caledonia's Loyalty Islands.

Photo Fiji Met 

The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department (VMGD) is reporting TC Lucas has a moderate to high chance of entering Vanuatu’s area of responsibility in the next 24 to 48 hours.

According to Weather Watch NZ, TC Lucas is tracking eastwards towards Vanuatu and New Caledonia and may reach severe category 3 status.

The VMDG said heavy rainfall is expected over parts of Shefa and Tafea islands.