The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service has upgraded Tropical Cyclone Maila to a Category 4 “Severe” system as of Tuesday evening, April 7, 2026. The storm, which is continuing to gain strength in the Solomon Sea, now poses an extreme threat to lives and property across the Western Province.
As of 5:00 PM local time, Severe Cyclone Maila was re-located approximately 167 kilometers (90 nautical miles) southwest of Rendova Island. The system has intensified significantly, with its central pressure dropping to 951 hectopascals.
Currently, the storm is moving slowly toward the northeast, tracking closer to the southern islands of the Western Province. Meteorologists warn that the system is still in an intensifying phase, meaning conditions could deteriorate further overnight.
The Category 4 system is generating violent weather conditions that are being felt across the archipelago:
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Western Province: Residents are experiencing sustained gale-force winds (63–70 km/h) and exceptionally rough seas. Moderate to heavy swells between 3.5 and 6.0 meters are currently battering coastlines, leading to significant coastal flooding.
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Choiseul and Isabel Provinces: Near-gale winds of up to 61 km/h are expected, with swells reaching up to 4.0 meters.
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National Outlook: Widespread heavy rain and thunderstorms remain in effect for all provinces. The sheer volume of rain has made landslides and flash flooding a critical risk for communities near steep slopes and major river systems.
Authorities have issued a stern warning for all citizens to prioritize safety and strictly follow emergency protocols:
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Immediate Precaution: Communities in low-lying areas or near rivers of unknown depth are urged to take precautionary measures immediately.
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Travel Restrictions: Sea travelers are told to remain in port as heavy rain has reduced visibility to dangerous levels. Motorists are advised to stay off the roads and must not attempt to cross flooded streams.
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Vulnerable Groups: A special appeal has been made to ensure that safety information and evacuation assistance are provided to people with disabilities.
Solomon Islands Meteorological Service Officer, Alex Rilifia said the cyclone is moving in a slow pace and it will not move out from the Solomon Seas in the next few days.
“This evening, its movement is very slow in a northeasterly direction, but it is essentially remaining in the same general area. It will not leave the Solomon Islands tonight or tomorrow; it is expected to stay in the Solomon Sea, south of the Western Province.
“By tomorrow or Thursday, we will have more updates on where it is heading. For now, please continue to stay safe and follow official updates,” Rilifia said.
Authorities said the Solomon Islands Broadcasting Corporation (SIBC) and other media outlets will continue to broadcast updates as they arrive.
The next official Tropical Cyclone Warning is scheduled for 1:30 AM tonight.
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