The Tonga Meteorological Service has advised that Tropical Disturbance TD03F currently lies well to the west of the archipelago and is unlikely to develop into a tropical cyclone affecting Tonga in the near term. In its first formation advice issued at 11:30 am today, the Ministry of MEIDECC reported the system was located roughly 1600 km west of Niuafoʻou and more than 1840 km west-north-west of Nukuʻalofa at 10:00 am.
Forecasters say the potential for TD03F to intensify into a tropical cyclone over the next 48 hours is low, and the system does not pose a threat to Tonga within the next 24 hours. The next advisory is scheduled for 11:30 pm today.
The advisory comes as the South Pacific approaches the height of the cyclone season, during which islands in the region are typically monitored for developing systems. Tonga has experienced significant cyclone events in past seasons, underlining the importance of early monitoring and preparedness.
Regional meteorological services have reported that while TD03F is not an immediate concern for Tonga, associated troughs of low pressure linked to the system are affecting weather in other parts of the Pacific, notably Fiji, where heavy rain and flood alerts remain in place.
The Meteorological Service has emphasised that residents should continue to follow official updates, especially as seasonal patterns evolve. Standard precautions including securing property and preparing emergency kits are encouraged throughout the cyclone season.
