On Wednesday, Tropical Cyclone Judy was upgraded to a Category 3 as it neared Vanuatu, and is forecast to advance to Category 4 later in the day.
According to the MetService, Vanuatu is expected to be affected by heavy rain, gale to storm force winds, and large waves, with the likelihood of hurricane force winds near the center of the storm from tonight. Additionally, there could be strong winds and large waves impacting areas of New Caledonia.
The Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) has identified evacuation centres in Port Vila. The rest of Efate island and other offshore islands, the NDMO office is working closely with the Vanuatu Christian Council of Churches to use church buildings as evacuation centres.
The Council for International Development's Humanitarian Network is closely monitoring the unfolding situation and will coordinate response activities, as any needs are identified. Our thoughts and aroha are with the people of Vanuatu.