Severe Tropical Cyclone Vaianu has unleashed heavy rain, flash flooding and powerful winds across Fiji, triggering widespread travel disruption and prompting urgent warnings for tourists. Australia’s Smartraveller advisory cautioned that flights may face delays or cancellations and essential services could be affected as the storm continues to intensify.
Fiji’s Meteorological Service reported on Tuesday evening that a heavy rain warning remained in force, with the cyclone positioned about 255 kilometres west‑south‑west of Nadi. The extreme conditions have already caused major aviation chaos, including a dramatic diversion of a Fiji Airways flight from Sydney after three failed attempts to land at Nadi.
Passengers described a distressing scene on board as turbulence worsened, with several travellers suffering severe motion sickness and vomiting in the aisles. The aircraft was ultimately diverted to Tonga’s capital, Nuku’alofa, where it landed safely. Fiji Airways said the decision was made as a precaution due to the dangerous weather associated with Cyclone Vaianu.
The storm’s impact is being felt across the region, with authorities warning that further disruptions are likely as the system continues to move through Fiji’s western waters. Travellers have been urged to monitor airline updates closely and follow local emergency instructions as conditions remain unpredictable.
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