Thousands flee as deadly cyclone hits Fiji, another menaces Solomons

Campbell Cooney and Helene Hofman

Last Updated: Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:20:00 +1100

Severe Tropical Cyclone Tomas has arrived over Fiji's Northern Islands.

Severe Tropical Cyclone Tomas, is now rated at Category Four, and has made landfall over Fiji's Northern islands.

The extreme weather has already claimed the life of a 31-year-old woman.

The Director of Fiji's Disaster Management Authority Pajiliai Dobui says many who lived in its path have been evacuated.

"About 5,000 are already taking shelter in most of the shelters of the Northern Division."

Cyclone Ului menaces Solomon Islands

Tropical Cyclone Ului has crossed the southern provinces of Solomon Islands generating strong winds.

The French national meteorological service in New Caledonia is closely monitoring its development.

The local weather bureau has issued a code yellow cyclone warning for the territory.

Over the weekend, the southern part of the main island and including the capital Noumea was hit by heavy rain and strong winds.

However, forecasters are warning conditions could worsen on Tuesday and Wednesday, depending on the course of Cyclone Ului.

Ferry services from the mainland to the Loyalty Islands and the Isle of Pines have also been cancelled until at least Thursday, due to rough seas.