A tropical disturbance is expected to pass Rarotonga later today, bringing strong winds and rain, the Cook Islands Meteorological Service has advised.

According to the Meteorological Service director Maara Vaiimene, Tropical Disturbance 03F (TD03F) was near Tonga and Niue yesterday and moving Southeast to pass to the South of the Southern Cook Islands.

Vaiimene said that on this track the disturbance is expected to pass from the Northwest (Arorangi) to South (Titikaveka) of Rarotonga from late Tuesday evening (January 7).

It is expected to continue moving in a Southeast direction away from Rarotonga from tomorrow, Wednesday, January 8, to lie to the south of Mangaia by Thursday.

“Rarotonga will be mostly affected by the disturbance as it passes to the south, with rain and strong winds at times, high seas will be experienced as the disturbance continues moving south-easterly,” Vaiimene said.

“The potential for TD03F to develop into a tropical cyclone in the next three days is low.”

Vaiimene said that the Cook Islands is approaching the peak of the tropical cyclone season “and the tropical cyclone outlook for the Cook Islands is rated as low between 0 to 1 named system happening during this season”.

However, the community is advised of the basic preparation in the event of severe weather, ensuring no loose items around the home that could potentially become a hazard during strong winds, cleaning drainage areas and actively listening to the radio or keeping in touch on social media for weather updates and messages from the Emergency Management Cook Islands (EMCI).

In a statement posted on its Facebook page yesterday, EMCI said that, together with the Meteorological Service, they are monitoring TD03F.

Strong winds and rough seas from the north to northwest, heavy downpours at times, and unsettled weather conditions are expected to persist into early next week, according to EMCI.

“While the Fiji Meteorological Service advises there’s a low to moderate risk of TD03F developing into a tropical cyclone, it’s important to prepare for disruptions and poor weather as the system moves through.

“Secure loose items around your property. Avoid unnecessary travel on rough seas. Stay updated with the latest forecasts and advisories. Let’s stay vigilant and prepared. Together, we can weather the storm.”