Severe Tropical Cyclone Maila has been downgraded to a Category 3 system as of Friday morning, April 10, 2026.
While the storm is beginning to lose some of its earlier intensity, the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service has maintained a Tropical Cyclone Warning for the Western Province, noting that the system remains a serious threat to lives and property.
As of 5:00 AM local time, the eye of Severe TC Maila was located in the Solomon Sea, approximately 280 kilometers (151 nautical miles) west of Ranonnga Island.
The system is currently drifting west at a very slow speed of 3 knots (approx. 5 km/h) toward the southeastern region of Papua New Guinea. Despite its movement away from the central islands, its massive footprint continues to lash the archipelago with heavy rain and surging seas.
Hazardous Conditions Forecast
| Region | Wind Speeds | Sea Conditions | Swell Height |
| Western Province | Gale Force: 63–70 km/h | Very Rough | 3.5 – 5.0 Meters |
| Other Provinces | 37 – 46 km/h | Moderate to Rough | 2.5 – 3.0 Meters |
Residents in the Western Province can expect sustained gale-force winds, thunderstorms, and significant coastal flooding. The rest of the country remains under a heavy rain alert, with moderate swells continuing to affect coastal areas.
Disaster authorities have reiterated that the combination of saturated soil and ongoing rainfall has created a high risk for landslides and flash flooding, especially for those living near hill slopes or major river systems.
The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service advises:
-
Maritime Safety: Sea travelers are urged to remain in port. Visibility is expected to be extremely poor due to widespread thunderstorms.
-
Motorists: Use extreme caution on roads. Do not attempt to cross flooded rivers or streams of unknown depth.
-
Inclusivity: Community members are specifically asked to assist and share these safety updates with people with disabilities.
The next official update from the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service is scheduled for 1:30 PM this afternoon. Citizens are encouraged to continue monitoring the SIBC and all local media outlets for further developments.
[ENDS]
