The remote islands of Wallis and Futuna, situated in the South Pacific Ocean, have a history of encountering powerful storms. This article explores ten of the biggest storms that have ever impacted these islands.
Understanding the nature and impact of these storms provides significant insights into the resilience and challenges faced by the inhabitants of Wallis and Futuna.
From cyclones to tropical storms, each event has left its mark on the region’s landscape and communities.
1. Cyclone Raja (1987)
Cyclone Raja is a major storm that affected Wallis and Futuna in December 1986 and January 1987. It holds the 24-hour rainfall record for the area, with 674.9 mm (26.57 in) of rain.
The Fiji Meteorological Service first noticed the storm as a weak disturbance northeast of Tokelau. It then moved southwest and developed into a severe tropical cyclone.
Raja caused significant flooding and damage in Wallis and Futuna. It remains one of the most memorable storms to hit the region due to its heavy rainfall and impact on local infrastructure.
Learn more about Cyclone Raja.
2. Cyclone Hina (1985)
Cyclone Hina struck Wallis and Futuna in March 1985. It was one of the most intense cyclones to hit the region during that season.
The storm caused severe damage, affecting infrastructure and homes. Many areas experienced flooding and strong winds, making it difficult for residents to cope.
Cyclone Hina was part of the 1984-85 South Pacific cyclone season, which saw several significant tropical cyclones.
The impact of Hina was particularly felt in the western parts. This event reminded the community of the importance of cyclone preparedness.
3. Cyclone Eric (1985)
Cyclone Eric struck Wallis and Futuna in January 1985.
Eric developed from a shallow depression within the monsoon trough on January 13. By January 16, the storm had intensified, reaching hurricane-force winds.
This cyclone was notable for its rapid deepening.
The storm caused significant damage to the infrastructure, uprooting trees and tearing off roofs.
Cyclone Eric also affected neighboring regions, including Vanuatu and Fiji.
On Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu, the cyclone killed at least 11 people and caused severe destruction. The Nadi and Lautoka areas were particularly hard hit.
4. Cyclone Martin (1986)
Cyclone Martin struck Wallis and Futuna in 1986. This cyclone was part of the 1986 Atlantic hurricane season, which recorded a total of six named storms.
Cyclone Martin caused severe damage, particularly to infrastructure and agriculture on the islands.
Winds reached speeds that disrupted power lines and damaged homes.
The cyclone led to significant rainfall, resulting in flooding in several areas. Many residents had to evacuate their homes.
Despite the hardships, the community quickly took action to repair the damage. Recovery efforts focused on rebuilding shelters and restoring essential services.
5. Cyclone Rewa (1993)
Cyclone Rewa struck in December 1993 and lasted into January 1994. It was a severe tropical cyclone that impacted six countries over its 28-day journey across the South Pacific Ocean.
The storm started as a tropical disturbance south of Nauru on December 28. It moved southwest through the Solomon Islands, crossing into the Australian region.
Cyclone Rewa affected many regions with heavy rain, high winds, and significant damages.
The cyclone ultimately resulted in 22 deaths. Its path and intensity made it one of the most impactful storms in the Pacific during that period.
For more details, you can visit the Cyclone Rewa page.
6. Cyclone Esau (1992)
Cyclone Esau was a severe tropical cyclone that struck the South Pacific in 1992. It was the most powerful cyclone to hit New Caledonia. The storm formed on 24 February 1992 and quickly gained strength.
By 26 February, Cyclone Esau was named as it was near Espiritu Santo. It moved southwest, away from the Vanuatu group. Esau accelerated westward due to an intense subtropical ridge.
Cyclone Esau caused significant damage. Buildings and infrastructure were heavily impacted, especially in New Caledonia.
The cyclone’s path and intensity set records in the region, making it one of the most memorable storms of that season.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Wikipedia article on Cyclone Esau.
7. Cyclone Nancy (1994)
Cyclone Nancy struck Wallis and Futuna in January 1994.
Nancy formed in the South Pacific Ocean and rapidly intensified as it moved towards the islands. The cyclone brought heavy rainfall and strong winds that reached up to 175 km/h (109 mph).
The impact on Wallis and Futuna was significant. Homes were damaged, and infrastructure, such as roads and utilities, faced severe disruptions.
Emergency services worked tirelessly to restore normalcy.
Relief efforts were mobilized to assist residents affected by the cyclone.
This included providing food, water, and temporary shelters for those who were displaced. The aftermath required a coordinated response to recover and rebuild.
8. Cyclone Keli (1997)
Cyclone Keli struck in June 1997, causing significant impact. It was notable for affecting Tuvalu earlier and continued its path towards Wallis and Futuna. The storm displayed intense activity with wind speeds reaching up to 50 knots and gusts up to 80 knots.
Keli was the third significant cyclone of the 1996-97 season to influence the region.
Historical data highlights that Keli was the first to impact this area in June, unusual for the cyclone season. The cyclone’s intensity and the timing of its occurrence made it a remarkable event for Wallis and Futuna.
For more information on the storm’s trajectory and impact, refer to this detailed report on Cyclone Keli.
9. Cyclone Waka (2001)
Cyclone Waka formed in late December 2001 between Samoa and Fiji. This cyclone tracked southwards towards Tonga. On December 30th, it hit Niuafo’ou, and by New Year’s Eve, it reached the Vava’u islands.
Waka reached peak wind speeds of 185 km/h with gusts up to 260 km/h. The storm caused significant destruction in Tonga, making it one of the most severe cyclones to impact the region.
Damage included flattened homes, disrupted power lines, and ruined crops. Many residents were displaced and faced hardship.
Cyclone Waka is remembered for its dramatic impact on the communities in Tonga and nearby areas.
More information about its effects on Tonga can be found here.
10. Cyclone Ami (2003)
Cyclone Ami hit the South Pacific region in January 2003. It was one of the most severe tropical cyclones to affect Fiji and nearby areas. The storm formed from a low-pressure area east of Tuvalu around January 12.
Ami moved slowly southwest at first but then shifted direction. The cyclone reached Category 4 with wind speeds reaching 205 km/h.
The cyclone caused severe damage in Fiji, including on the islands of Vanua Levu, Taveuni, and other smaller islands.
It resulted in significant flooding and the loss of 17 lives. The heavy rains and high winds led to widespread infrastructure damage and displaced many residents.
Learn more about Cyclone Ami and its effects on Fiji and nearby islands.
Historical Context
Wallis and Futuna have a rich history that greatly affects their experience with storms. Their early weather records provide insight into early patterns, and the colonial period brought unique challenges.
Early Meteorological Records
In Wallis and Futuna, the recording of weather patterns dates back to the times when European explorers first arrived.
These records were often kept by missionaries and colonial officers who noted down significant weather events. Throughout the 19th century, these records began to capture the frequency and intensity of storms.
Missionaries were responsible for establishing some of the earliest meteorological stations on the islands. They recorded wind speeds, rainfall, and other critical data.
These observations laid the groundwork for the understanding of regional weather patterns.
The islands’ location in the South Pacific made them prone to cyclones.
Detailed accounts from early observers helped identify seasonal trends, as well as years with unusually high storm activity.
This historical data is essential for current weather predictions and preparations.
Impact of Colonial Era Storms
During the colonial era, Wallis and Futuna were under French control. The infrastructure was often damaged by powerful storms.
Colonial reports from this period document the devastation caused to buildings, crops, and the local populace.
Colonial authorities faced significant challenges in rebuilding and providing aid after such events. The resilience of the people of Wallis and Futuna is evident in their recovery efforts and adaptive strategies.
Communication and logistics were difficult due to the remoteness of the islands.
This isolation hampered relief efforts and made it hard to prepare for future storms.
The impact of these historical storms can still be felt today in the infrastructure and community practices.
Meteorological Patterns
The storm activity in Wallis and Futuna is influenced by several climatic factors and varies significantly throughout the year. Understanding these patterns can help predict and prepare for future storms.
Climate Influences on Storm Formation
Wallis and Futuna lie in the South Pacific, where weather patterns are affected by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO).
ENSO can cause significant changes in sea surface temperatures, which in turn influence storm formation.
During El Niño periods, warm waters shift eastward, often reducing the number of cyclones in the Western Pacific.
Conversely, La Niña brings cooler waters to the central and eastern Pacific, creating conditions favorable for storm development in the Western Pacific, including Wallis and Futuna.
Key Climate Influences:
- ENSO: Alters sea temperatures and storm paths.
- Sea Surface Temperatures: Affects storm intensity.
- Trade Winds: Can steer storms away or towards Wallis and Futuna.
Seasonal Variations in Storm Activity
Storms in Wallis and Futuna vary by season, with most occurring during the cyclone season from November to April.
This period is marked by warmer sea surface temperatures and more humid air, creating an ideal environment for cyclones.
Between May and October, cooler sea temperatures and drier conditions typically lead to fewer storms.
This seasonal pattern is critical for local preparation efforts, as the community braces for potential cyclones during the peak season.
Seasonal Storm Trends:
- November to April: High risk, warm seas, and humid air.
- May to October: Lower risk, cooler seas, and dry air.
By understanding these meteorological patterns, residents and authorities in Wallis and Futuna can better anticipate and respond to the dangers posed by tropical storms.