Tropical Cyclone Fran - Mar 1992

Tropical Cyclone 'Fran' hit Vanuatu on 9 March 1992 with average winds estimated at 90 knots and gusting to 120 knots. Early reports indicate worst damage to Efate island and Port Vila where buildings damaged by strong winds and water. Evacuation centres were opened and communications equipment secured before cyclone hit. All schools were closed and national disaster management office broadcasted hourly preparedness messages to public. These preparatory measures expected to have mitigated effects of cyclone. (UN DHA, 10 Mar 1992)

The effects of tropical cyclone Fran were felt over a large area of the southwest Pacific. At Wallis and Futuna Islands, damage to trees, telephone and power lines was experienced, several boats were sunk and some buildings lost roofs. The heaviest impacts were felt in Vanuatu; in Erromango, houses were destroyed, considerable crop damage occurred and a storm surge was reported at Erromango wharf. In Efate, over 130 houses lost roofs. (Govt. of Australia, 16 Mar 1992)