SUVA, Oct. 13 (Xinhua) -- Two to three tropical cyclones are expected to affect the South Pacific island country of Fiji in this cyclone season from November to April next year, with the peak period running usually from January to March.
According to a Fijivillage news website report, speaking on Thursday marking the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction and launching the national disaster media awareness campaign for the 2022-23 cyclone season, Fiji's Minister for Meteorological Services Jone Usamate said that Fiji expects two to three tropical cyclones in the coming cyclone season, with one to two of them projected to be severe.
Usamate added that flooding continues to be one of the leading causes of death during any cyclonic events.
According to the minister, 26 new tsunami sirens are planned for installation in Fiji, to add to the existing 13 ones.
The Fijian government is working with its partners on developing people-centered early warning systems and preparedness that can enable early action to minimize harm to people, property, and livelihoods.
When tropical cyclones move over or pass close to the Fiji islands, the risks include damaging winds, and heavy rain leading to flooding, landslides and storm surge that can result in sea flooding of low-lying coastal areas.
In 2016, Fiji was hit by tropical cyclone Winston, which killed 44 people and caused extensive damage to the island state. ■