The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service has issued Tropical Cyclone Warning Number Eighteen, reporting that Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila has weakened slightly to a Category 4 system as of Thursday morning, April 9, 2026.
Despite the slight drop in intensity from its previous Category 5 status, the storm remains a “Severe” and dangerous system with a central pressure of 941 hectopascals. It continues to pose a significant threat to lives and property in the western reaches of the archipelago.
As of 5:00 AM this morning, the eye of the storm was located approximately 146 kilometers (73 nautical miles) west-southwest of Ranonnga Island in the Western Province.
Severe Cyclone Maila is currently moving west at 4 knots (approx. 7.5 km/h), a slow pace that is taking the system away from the Solomon Islands and toward the southeastern part of Papua New Guinea. However, because the system is moving so slowly, hazardous conditions are expected to persist across the Western Province throughout the day.
Hazardous Conditions by Region
| Region | Wind Forecast | Sea Conditions | Swell Height |
| Western Province | Gale Force: 63–70 km/h | Very Rough | 3.5 – 5.0 Meters |
| Choiseul & Isabel | Near Gale: Up to 61 km/h | Moderate to Rough | 2.5 – 3.0 Meters |
| Other Provinces | Heavy Rain & Thunder | Moderate | Moderate Swells |
The Western Province remains under high alert for coastal flooding and widespread heavy rain.
Authorities continue to warn of “life-threatening” conditions. Widespread rainfall across the country has saturated the soil, leading to a high risk of landslides for communities near hill slopes and flash flooding for those near large rivers or low-lying areas.
Specific Advisories:
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Sea Travelers: All maritime transport is urged to exercise extreme caution; heavy rain continues to severely reduce visibility at sea.
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Motorists: Drivers are advised to use extreme caution. Do not attempt to cross rivers or large streams of unknown depth, as currents may be stronger than they appear.
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Inclusivity: A specific call has been made for community members to share all safety information with people with disabilities to ensure they are prepared and supported.
The public is urged to monitor the SIBC and all media outlets for continuous updates. The next official warning will be released by the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service at 1:30 PM this afternoon.
[ENDS]
