The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service has issued Tropical Cyclone Warning Number Eleven as of 1:30 PM today, Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila remains a dangerous Category 3 system and is continuing to intensify as it tracks through the Solomon Sea.
As of 11:00 AM this morning, the eye of the storm was re-located approximately 182.4 kilometers (98.5 nautical miles) southwest of Rendova Island in the Western Province.
With a central pressure of 962 hectopascals, Maila is moving slowly southeast at 4 knots (approx. 7.5 km/h). Forecasters warn that the system is still gaining strength as it moves toward the southern reaches of the Western Province.
The storm is producing life-threatening conditions across the western and central islands:
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Western Province: Residents should expect sustained gale-force winds of 63–87 km/h. Sea conditions are described as “very rough,” with moderate to heavy swells reaching heights of 3.5 to 6.0 meters.
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Choiseul and Isabel Provinces: Winds are expected to increase to 33 knots (61 km/h), with swells of 2.5 to 4.0 meters and potential coastal flooding.
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National Outlook: Widespread heavy rain and thunderstorms are forecast for all remaining provinces, significantly increasing the risk of flash flooding and landslides.
Authorities have issued a “threat to lives and properties” notice, urging citizens to take the following precautions immediately:
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Flood Risk: Communities near hill slopes, large rivers, and low-lying areas should prepare for possible evacuations due to rising waters and landslide potential.
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Travel Warning: Sea travelers are urged to remain in port as heavy rain has severely reduced visibility. Motorists must exercise extreme caution and avoid attempting to cross rivers of unknown depth.
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Inclusive Communication: The public is asked to ensure that this critical safety information is shared with people with disabilities within their communities.
The next official update from the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service will be released at 7:30 PM this evening.
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