30 Jan 2006

Cyclone Jim intensifying and heading towards New Caledonia

7:10 am on 30 January 2006

A severe tropical cyclone is maintaining its course towards New Caledonia.

Cyclone Jim is currently Category 2 and is situated in the Coral Sea about half way between Australia and New Caledonia.

The cyclone has winds of 60 knots at is centre, but these are forecast to increase to 85 knots by around midday.

These strengthening winds are likely to push the cyclone up to Category 3.

On its current course, cyclone Jim is not expected to arrive in New Caledonia until later on Tuesday.