26 Feb 2004

Tropical Cyclone Ivy hits northern provinces of Vanuatu

11:52 am on 26 February 2004

Tropical Cyclone Ivy continues to buffet the northern provinces of Vanuatu causing damage to crops and homes on Maewo Island

Alan Ararai, this morning's duty forecaster at the Vanuatu Meteorological Service says Ivy has been almost stationary over Malekula for some hours

He says indications are that the high winds will continue to cause problems for the couuntry.

"Destructive hurricane-force winds gusting up to 110 knots are still expected to affect Malapa province, the islands of Malekula and Pentecost down to Ebeye Island and then extend to the Shepherds later this morning.."

I

Alan Ararai says Ivy is expected to maintain a south south west direction at a speed of eight knots during the next six to 12 hours.