TD09F intensifies, expected to become TC Urmil today

Tropical Depression TD09F continues to intensify and is expected to develop into a tropical cyclone later today, becoming the first named system of the 2025–26 cyclone season.

The Fiji Meteorological Service said the system strengthened overnight from a tropical disturbance into a tropical depression.

At 6am, TD09F was located about 90 kilometres southwest of Port Vila, Vanuatu, or approximately 1020km west of Nadi. It is moving south-southeast at around 15km/h.

Forecasters say the centre of the system is expected to remain well to the far west of Fiji and is not forecast to move directly over the group.

However, TD09F continues to draw energy from warm Pacific waters and is anticipated to reach Tropical Cyclone intensity within the next six to 12 hours. Once intensified, it will be named Tropical Cyclone Urmil.

While the cyclone’s centre will remain distant, associated rainbands and strong to gusty north-northwesterly winds are expected to affect parts of Fiji from tomorrow.

In anticipation, the following advisories are now in force:

• A strong wind warning for the waters of Yasawa and Mamanuca, and southwest Viti Levu.
• A heavy rainfall alert for the Western Division and Kadavu.
• A strong wind warning for land areas of the Western Division and Kadavu, with winds expected to strengthen from tomorrow.

The public is advised to monitor the latest forecasts and take necessary precautions.