Cyclone (Hurricane) Safety in Wallis & Futuna: How to Prepare

Wallis and Futuna's tropical cyclone season runs from November to April, and a network of agencies closely monitors potential storms.

Météo-France Wallis et Futuna works in coordination with the Administration Supérieure in Mata-Utu and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, as well as the Meteorological Service Offices in Fiji and the Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre (RSMC) in Nadi to issue cyclone watches and warnings.

Thanks to this system, developing storms are detected early, giving locals and travellers plenty of time to prepare.

How Cyclones Are Reported

Cyclones typically begin as tropical depressions. Once sustained winds reach 40–73 mph (65–120 kph), the system is classified as a tropical storm.

When wind speeds climb further, it is upgraded to a cyclone and given a name (e.g. Cyclone Gita, 2018). These cyclones are categorised from Category 1 (55-78 mph / 88-125 kph) up to Category 5 (over 155 mph / 250 kph) based on severity.

Meteorologists track each storm's progress and issue a five-day forecast showing its projected path. Although the path can shift, early warnings are widely broadcast through radio, local alerts and emergency sirens to ensure communities and visitors have time to act.

Why do you need to prepare for a cyclone? The severe gale force winds can cause significant damage to weaker structures in Wallis and Futuna, for instance, buildings in villages. There may also be damage to power lines causing blackouts, damage to crops and trees, and dangerous airborne debris.

Another danger can be contaminated tap water, although we recommend that you always filter (with a Lifestraw bottle, for instance) or boil tap water in Wallis and Futuna unless you know your accommodation is treating the water - see Is the Water Safe to Drink in Wallis and Futuna?

If you're visiting Wallis and Futuna during cyclone season (November to April), one of the best things you can do is stay on top of local weather alerts. Météo-France issues real-time cyclone watches and warnings in coordination with agencies like RSMC Nadi and the Joint Typhoon Warning Center to ensure island safety.

You can find updates on the Météo-France Wallis et Futuna website and via the Administration Supérieure (Prefecture) bulletins. The local government also issues urgent warnings through official social media and radio broadcasts to keep the public informed.

Given how unpredictable cyclones can be, it's always better to be overprepared than underprepared. If you're staying in a hotel or guesthouse, ask the staff about their cyclone procedure. They'll be able to advise on the safest area of the building in case you need to shelter in place.

Prepare a basic emergency kit with food, water, clothing and medication for at least three days. It's also helpful to have a battery-powered radio or a fully charged power bank to get updates via your phone. A flashlight and extra batteries are also essential. Emergency services in Wallis and Futuna can be reached by dialing 18 or 15.

Keep following the news and progress of the cyclone through radio, TV, and official announcements. You’ll be informed if evacuation is necessary and where to go for shelter.

Official advice will be given through Wallis & Futuna la 1ère and local alerts. Learn more about getting a local phone number in The Best SIM Cards in Wallis & Futuna for Travellers.

Below is a record of cyclones that have affected Wallis and Futuna since 1889.

Cyclone Ami

Cyclone Ami was a significant storm during the 2003 South Pacific cyclone season, forming in early January 2003 and reaching Category 3 intensity. While Ami is best known for its severe impacts on Fiji, where it caused heavy rainfall, flooding, landslides, widespread power outages along with multiple fatalities, the cyclone was also monitored as it moved through the wider Southwest Pacific basin, including the vicinity of Wallis and Futuna.

Cyclone Amos

Cyclone Amos (April 2016) impacted Wallis and Futuna as a strong Category 3 tropical cyclone, prompting regional warnings and forecasts of heavy rain and rough seas. While the storm did not make a direct landfall, significant rainfall was recorded, about 160 mm at Hihifo Airport on Wallis, illustrating how even nearby cyclones can bring intense downpours and coastal impacts.

Cyclone Evan

Cyclone Evan (December 2012) was a powerful tropical cyclone in the South Pacific that prompted widespread watches and warnings across the region, including for areas near Wallis and Futuna. Although it did not make a direct landfall on the islands, the system brought heightened winds and rough seas to the surrounding waters, and authorities closely monitored its progress to ensure communities and visitors were prepared.

Cyclone Fran

Cyclone Fran (March 1992) was a notable South Pacific tropical cyclone that tracked near parts of the region during the cyclone season. While Fran did not make a direct landfall on Wallis and Futuna, its presence contributed to heightened wind and rainfall warnings as it moved through adjacent waters.

Cyclone Gavin

Cyclone Gavin (March 1997) was a moderate tropical cyclone in the South Pacific basin that passed near parts of the region during the cyclone season. While it didn’t make a direct landfall on Wallis and Futuna, its approach brought heightened weather awareness as agencies monitored its path for potential impacts. Even when storms like Gavin stay offshore, they can still produce increased swells, unsettled rainbands and stronger winds.

Cyclone Gita

Cyclone Gita (February 2018) was a powerful South Pacific tropical cyclone that prompted watches and warnings across the region, including for areas around Wallis and Futuna. Although the storm’s centre did not make direct landfall on the islands, agencies monitored its movement closely because of the potential for strong winds, heavy rain and rough seas as it passed nearby.

Cyclone Heta

Cyclone Heta (late December 2003–January 2004) was an intense Category 5 tropical cyclone in the South Pacific that drew attention across the region, including for Wallis and Futuna. While Heta’s most severe impacts were felt further south, its approach served as a reminder that powerful cyclones can influence weather conditions in nearby island territories, bringing heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas even if the storm’s core remains offshore.

Cyclone Hina

Cyclone Hina (March 1997) was a tropical cyclone in the South Pacific that developed during the 1996-97 cyclone season and passed near parts of the region. While it did not make a direct landfall on Wallis and Futuna, the system was monitored because of the potential for strong winds, heavy rain and rough seas in surrounding waters.

Cyclone Keli

Cyclone Keli (June 1997) was the third of four tropical cyclones to affect Wallis and Futuna within a ten-month period, following Cyclones Gavin and Hina earlier in 1997. Despite its passage, almost no significant damage was recorded across the territory. Rainfall during 11 June reached 171.6 mm at Hihifo and 160 mm at Aka'aka on Wallis, while wind gusts of up to 70 kph (43 mph) were measured at Maopoopo on Futuna on 13 July.

Cyclone Nina

Cyclone Nina (January 1992) impacted Wallis and Futuna between 3-4 January, though no tropical cyclone warnings were issued for the territory by regional meteorological services. Some minor damage to crops and houses was reported, highlighting how even systems that do not trigger formal warnings can still produce disruptive weather and local impacts.

Cyclone Ofa

Cyclone Ofa (February 1990) affected Wallis and Futuna, bringing brief gale-force winds, heavy seas and coastal flooding from storm surge. Minor damage to trees, crops and some infrastructure was reported, but there were no deaths or serious injuries. The event highlighted how cyclones can cause local impacts even when passing offshore.

Cyclone Raja

Cyclone Raja (December 1986) struck Wallis and Futuna, causing one death and extensive damage to crops, buildings and coastal installations. Record rainfall and extreme winds destroyed weather instruments, while flooding and storm surge damaged infrastructure including the airstrip. The event highlighted the vulnerability of low-lying areas during severe cyclones.

Cyclone Ron

Cyclone Ron (January 1998), bringing winds up to 130 km/hr and heavy rainfall. Widespread damage to roofs, trees, coastal roads and crops was reported, and utilities such as water, electricity and communications were disrupted. Residents in low-lying areas evacuated to higher ground as large swells and tidal surges affected coastal zones.

Cyclone Tino

Cyclone Tino (January 2020), prompting pre-cyclone and level 1 alerts between January 17–20 and the cancellation of inter-island flights. Torrential rain and storm surge caused flooded roads, downed trees and damage to homes, particularly in Wallis where winds also brought power outages after high-voltage lines were blown down.

Cyclone Tomas

Cyclone Tomas (March 2010) affected Wallis and Futuna, with warnings issued as gale-force winds were expected across the territory. The cyclone passed near Futuna and caused significant damage, particularly in the north-eastern areas around the village of Poi. Many houses and buildings were destroyed or severely damaged, and the island’s only road was washed away. Water and electricity supplies were disrupted, though no human casualties were reported.

Cyclone Val

Cyclone Val (December 1991), with gale warnings issued as the system approached northern areas. Although the strongest winds largely bypassed Wallis, minor coastal flooding and some damage were reported.

Cyclone Waka

Cyclone Waka (December 2001), affected Wallis and Futuna, prompting weather watches and warnings as it passed. On Wallis, one home was destroyed and about half of the banana crop was lost. Rainfall reached 112 mm (4.4 in) in Hihifo, with wind gusts of 126 km/hr and swells up to 7 m (23 ft) recorded. The event caused agricultural and property damage but no reports of widespread casualties.

Cyclones in Wallis and Futuna, Month-by-Month

• January: 1944, 1958, 1966, 1969, 1992 (Nina), 1998 (Ron), 2003 (Ami), 2004 (Heta), 2020 (Tino)
• February: 1889, 1957, 1965, 1966, 1990 (Ofa), 2018 (Gita)
• March: 1992 (Fran), 1997 (Gavin), 1997 (Hina), 2010 (Tomas)
• April: 2016 (Amos)
• June: 1997 (Keli)
• December: 1946, 1957,1986 (Raja), 1991 (Val), 2001 (Waka), 2012 (Evan).

Now that you know about cyclone seasons and safety in Wallis and Futuna, here are the answers to the internet's frequently asked questions about cyclones in this Pacific territory!

When is cyclone season in Wallis and Futuna?

Cyclone season in Wallis and Futuna typically runs from November to April, with peak activity occurring between January and March. During this period, the islands are most vulnerable to tropical cyclones and severe weather systems. For more information, check out Wallis & Futuna Weather, Seasons & Climate + Weather by Month.

How often do cyclones hit Wallis and Futuna?

According to locals, Wallis and Futuna experiences a significant cyclone approximately every three to five years, though minor tropical systems may pass through more frequently. The islands' remote location in the South Pacific makes them particularly susceptible to these weather patterns.

What category cyclones typically affect Wallis and Futuna?

The islands typically experience cyclones ranging from Category 1 to Category 4, with Category 2 and 3 storms being most common. The compact size of the islands means even lower-category storms can cause significant damage across the entire territory.

How do you prepare for a cyclone in Wallis and Futuna?

Cyclone preparation involves stocking up on essential supplies including water (at least four litres per person per day), non-perishable food, medications, batteries, and fuel. From our experience, it's crucial to secure outdoor furniture and have a battery-powered radio for weather updates, as power outages are common.

Can you evacuate from Wallis and Futuna during a cyclone?

Evacuation options are extremely limited due to the islands' remote location and small airport. Hihifo Airport typically suspends operations during severe weather, making evacuation by air impossible during cyclone conditions. We strongly advise against planning travel during cyclone season unless absolutely necessary.

What damage do cyclones typically cause in Wallis and Futuna?

Cyclones commonly cause power outages, telecommunications disruptions, flooding, and damage to traditional fale structures and coconut plantations. The islands' limited infrastructure means recovery can take several weeks or months, particularly for outer villages.