Cyclone Gita
{{Short description|Strong tropical cyclone which affected Tonga}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2018}}
{{Infobox weather event
| name=Severe Tropical Cyclone Gita
| image=Gita 2018-02-14 0150Z.jpg
| caption=Cyclone Gita at peak intensity south of Fiji on 14 February
}}{{Infobox weather event/History
| formed=3 February 2018
| dissipated=22 February 2018
| extratropical=19 February 2018
}}{{Infobox weather event/FMS
| winds=110
| pressure=927
}}{{Infobox weather event/JTWC
| winds=125
| pressure=937
}}{{Infobox weather event/Effects
| damage=252800000
| fatalities=1
| year=2018
| areas=Vanuatu, Fiji, Wallis and Futuna, Samoa, American Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue, Tonga, New Caledonia, Queensland, New Zealand
}}{{Infobox weather event/Footer
| season=2017–18 South Pacific cyclone season
}}
Severe Tropical Cyclone Gita was the most intense tropical cyclone to impact Tonga since reliable records began. The second named storm and first major tropical cyclone of the 2017–18 South Pacific cyclone season, Gita originated from a monsoon trough that was active in the South Pacific in early February 2018. First classified as a tropical disturbance on 3 February, the nascent system meandered near Vanuatu for several days with little development. After acquiring a steady east trajectory near Fiji, it organized into a Category 1 tropical cyclone on 9 February near Samoa. Arcing south in a clockwise turn, the system rapidly intensified, and became a severe tropical cyclone on 10 February near Niue.
Throughout its path in the South Pacific, Cyclone Gita affected multiple island nations and territories. Tonga was the hardest-hit, with severe damage occurring on the islands of Tongatapu and ʻEua; two fatalities and forty-one injuries occurred in the kingdom. At least 171 homes were destroyed and more than 1,100 suffered damage. Violent winds destroyed homes and left the two islands largely without power. Torrential rains and damaging winds caused widespread disruptions in Samoa and American Samoa, prompting emergency declarations in both. Outlying islands in the Fijian Lau Islands were significantly affected, particularly Ono-i-Lau and Vatoa. Wallis and Futuna, Niue, and Vanuatu were also affected, but impacts in those areas were minor. Total damage from Gita is estimated to be in excess of US$252 million, primarily in American Samoa and Tonga.
Meteorological history
{{storm path|Gita 2018 track.png}}
On 3 February, the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS) started to monitor Tropical Disturbance 07F,{{cite report|author=Fiji Meteorological Service|publisher=World Meteorological Organization|date=July 2018|accessdate=13 April 2021|title=Review of the 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 Cyclone Seasons|url=https://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/Documents/RAV_TCC-17_DOC4.1.1_RSMC-Nadi.pdf}}{{rp|7–8}} which had developed within a trough of low pressure, about {{convert|435|km|mi|round=5|abbr=on}} to the southeast of Honiara in the Solomon Islands.{{cite press release|url=http://www.met.gov.fj/aifs_prods/HR25.pdf |title=Rain continues and heavy rain warning remains|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service|date=3 February 2018|access-date=14 February 2018}}{{cite web |title=Tropical Disturbance Summary February 3, 2018 09z |author=RSMC Nadi — Tropical Cyclone Centre |archive-url=https://archive.today/20121226095724/http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WWPS21-NFFN_201212260900.htm |publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service |date=3 February 2018 |access-date=12 February 2018 |url=http://www.met.gov.fj/aifs_prods/20036.txt |archive-date=26 December 2012 |url-status=dead}} The system was poorly organized and was located along an upper-level ridge of high pressure, in an area of high vertical wind shear. Over the next couple of days, the system moved erratically near northern Vanuatu and remained poorly organized, with convection located to the south of the low-level circulation center.{{cite web |title=Tropical Disturbance Summary February 5, 2018 09z |author=RSMC Nadi — Tropical Cyclone Centre |archive-url=https://archive.today/20121226095724/http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WWPS21-NFFN_201212260900.htm |publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service |date=5 February 2018 |access-date=12 February 2018 |url=http://www.met.gov.fj/aifs_prods/20036.txt |archive-date=26 December 2012 |url-status=dead }} The system subsequently started to move south-eastwards, towards the Fijian Islands and a favorable environment for further development, on 5 February.{{cite press release |url=http://www.met.gov.fj/aifs_prods/HR27.pdf |title=TD08F remains slow moving|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service|date=5 February 2018|access-date=14 February 2018}} The system subsequently passed near the island nation during 8 February, where it developed into a tropical depression and started to move north-eastwards towards the Samoan Islands.{{cite press release |url=http://www.met.gov.fj/aifs_prods/HR30.pdf |title=Heavy rain and strong winds to ease as TD07F moves away|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service|date=8 February 2018|access-date=14 February 2018}}{{cite web |author=RSMC Nadi — Tropical Cyclone Centre|title=Tropical Disturbance Advisory Number A1 |url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WTPS11-NFFN_201802081200.htm |publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service |date=8 February 2018 |access-date=14 February 2018 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240522014522/https://www.webcitation.org/6x5GwiCjG?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WTPS11-NFFN_201802081200.htm |archive-date=22 May 2024 |url-status=dead }} During 9 February, the United States Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) initiated advisories on the system and designated it as Tropical Cyclone 09P, after an ASCAT image showed that it had winds of {{convert|65-75|km/h|mph|round=5|abbr=on}} in its northern semicircle.{{cite web|author=Joint Typhoon Warning Center |location=Pearl Harbor HI|title=Tropical Cyclone Warning|url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WTPS31-PGTW_201802090300.htm |publisher=Government of the United States |date=9 February 2018 |access-date=14 February 2018 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240522014603/https://www.webcitation.org/6x6Hhw614?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WTPS31-PGTW_201802090300.htm|archive-date=22 May 2024 |url-status=dead}} The FMS subsequently named the system Tropical Cyclone Gita early, after the United States National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office in Pago Pago requested that the system be named early for warning and humanitarian reasons.{{cite web|title=Tropical Disturbance Advisory February 9, 2018 06z|author=RSMC Nadi — Tropical Cyclone Centre |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240522014642/https://www.webcitation.org/6x6HUGtQe?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WTPS11-NFFN_201802090600.htm|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service |date=9 February 2018|access-date=12 February 2018|url=http://www.wis-jma.go.jp/d/o/NFFN/Alphanumeric/Warning/Tropical_cyclone/20180209/060000/A_WTPS11NFFN090600_C_RJTD_20180209063417_18.txt |archive-date=22 May 2024 |url-status=live }}
After Gita was named, a prolonged period of rapid intensification ensued as it quickly intensified into a Category 1 tropical cyclone on the Australian tropical cyclone intensity scale, before it passed within {{convert|100|km|mi|round=5|abbr=on}} of Samoa and American Samoa. After moving past the Samoan Islands, Gita turned southeast, then southwards, under the influence of a near-equatorial ridge to the northeast.{{cite web|title=Overall Red alert Tropical Cyclone for GITA-18|url=http://gdacs.org/gts.aspx?eventid=1000436&eventtype=TC|website=GDACS|publisher=Joint Typhoon Warning Center|access-date=13 February 2018}} On 10 February, Gita rapidly intensified to a category 3 severe tropical cyclone on the Australian scale{{cite web|title=HURRICANE WARNING 017|url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WHPS01-NFFN_201802100600.htm|website=WebCite|publisher=RSMC Nadi|access-date=13 February 2018|archive-url=https://archive.today/20240522014805/https://www.webcitation.org/6x7yEAnPv?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WHPS01-NFFN_201802100600.htm|archive-date=22 May 2024|url-status=dead}} while traversing anomalously warm sea surface temperatures of between {{convert|82–84|F|C|order=flip}}.{{cite web|last1=Henson|first1=Bob|title=Eyewall of Fearsome Cyclone Gita Churns across Tonga|url=https://www.wunderground.com/cat6/eyewall-fearsome-cyclone-gita-churns-across-tonga|publisher=Weather Underground|access-date=13 February 2018}} The system bypassed Niue to the east during this intensification phase.{{rp|7}} On 11 February, Gita continued to intensify into a category 4 severe tropical cyclone.{{cite web|title=HURRICANE WARNING 024|url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WHPS01-NFFN_201802111200.htm|website=WebCite|publisher=RSMC Nadi|access-date=13 February 2018|archive-url=https://archive.today/20240522014845/https://www.webcitation.org/6x9cNbDl6?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WHPS01-NFFN_201802111200.htm|archive-date=22 May 2024|url-status=dead}} At the same time, Gita turned westward under the influence of a subtropical ridge to the south. Around 12:00 UTC on 12 February, the cyclone passed near or over the Tongan islands of ʻEua and Tongatapu as a high-end Category 4 severe tropical cyclone.{{cite report|author=Kingdom of Tonga|via=ReliefWeb|date=23 February 2018|accessdate=13 April 2021|title=Tropical Cyclone Gita Immediate Response Plan|url=https://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/tc_gita_immediate_response_plan.pdf}} At this time, maximum 10-minute sustained winds were estimated at {{convert|195|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} making Gita the strongest cyclone to strike the nation since reliable records began.{{cite report|author=Kenneth R. Knapp|author2=Michael C. Kruk|author3=David H. Levinson|author4=Howard J. Diamond|author5=Charles J. Neumann|year=2020|work=The International Best Track Archive for Climate Stewardship (IBTrACS): Unifying tropical cyclone best track data|title=2018 Tropical Cyclone GITA (2018038S15172)|publisher=Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society|accessdate=13 April 2021|url={{IBTRACS url|id=2018038S15172}}}} The JTWC estimated the system to have reached its overall peak intensity at this time as a Category 4-equivalent on the Saffir-Simpson scale with 1-minute sustained winds of {{convert|230|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}.
At 18:00 UTC on 13 February, Gita reached its peak strength approximately {{convert|205|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of Kandavu, Fiji, as a Category 5 severe tropical cyclone with ten-minute sustained winds of {{convert|205|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, gusts to {{convert|285|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}, a minimum pressure of 927 mbar (hPa; 27.37 inHg).{{rp|7}}
{{clear}}
Impact
Gita impacted the Pacific island nations and territories of Vanuatu, Fiji, Wallis and Futuna, Samoa, American Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue, Tonga, New Caledonia, and New Zealand, with the most significant damage being reported in the Samoan Islands and Tonga. Owing to the cyclone's significant and widespread impact, the name Gita was retired following its usage and will never be used for a South Pacific tropical cyclone again.{{cite report|author=RA V Tropical Cyclone Committee|publisher=World Meteorological Organization|year=2020|accessdate=April 12, 2021|title=Tropical Cyclone Operational Plan for the South Pacific and South-East Indian Ocean|url=https://wmoomm.sharepoint.com/sites/wmocpdb/eve_activityarea/Tropical%20Cyclone%20Programme%20(TCP)_73452102-7575-e911-a98e-000d3a44bd9c/Operational%20Plans/05_RAV-TropicalCycloneCommittee-RA%20V%20TCC/2020_RAV_TropicalCycloneOperationalPlan.pdf|isbn=978-92-63-11181-4}}{{rp|25}}
=Samoa=
File:Gita 2018-02-09 1426Z.jpg satellite image of Gita near the Samoan islands on 9 February. Heavy rain bands with rainfall rates of {{convert|1|to|1.6|in|mm|abbr=on|order=flip}} per hour were identified near the islands.]]
Gita brought torrential rain to parts of Samoa on 8–9 February. Accumulations averaged {{convert|150|–|250|mm|in|abbr=on}} across the country, peaking at {{convert|320|mm|in|abbr=on}} along the eastern slops of Mount Le Pu'e on Upolu.{{cite report |publisher=World Meteorological Organization|date=20 June 2018|accessdate=10 April 2021|title=Review of the 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 Cyclone Seasons|url=https://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/Documents/RAV_TCC-17_DOC4.2.6_SAMOA.pdf}} Storm-force winds impacted the nation, reaching {{convert|99.7|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} at Faleolo International Airport and {{convert|98.2|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} in Apia. Multiple rivers in the city burst their banks and inundated homes. At least 233 people sought refuge in emergency shelters.{{cite news|publisher=TVNZ|date=9 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Widespread flooding in Samoa as Cyclone Gita leaves its mark|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/world/widespread-flooding-in-samoa-cyclone-gita-leaves-its-mark}} Landslides and flooding rendered many roads impassable.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=10 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Samoa assesses damage as Cyclone Gita, now a category 2, strengthens|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/350087/samoa-assesses-damage-as-cyclone-gita-now-a-category-2-strengthens}} Communications were briefly lost with the southern coast of Upolu. A state of disaster was declared for the nation on 10 February.{{cite news|newspaper=Samoa News|date=10 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Damage after Cylcone Gita|url=http://www.samoanews.com/local-news/damage-after-cylcone-gita}} Damage to the power grid reached $10 million.{{cite news|first=Joyetter|last=Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu|date=21 February 2018|access-date=23 February 2018|title=Gita slaps E.P.C. with $10m bill|url=http://www.sobserver.ws/en/22_02_2018/local/30325/Gita-slaps-EPC-with-$10m-bill.htm}} No casualties were reported nationwide.
=American Samoa=
File:Chui Kai Fa No. 1 grounded off American Samoa.jpg
On 8 February, the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Pago Pago issued a tropical storm watch, a high surf advisory, and a flash flood watch for all of American Samoa as the nascent cyclone approached the territory. With Tropical Depression 08F existing simultaneously to the south of Fiji, uncertainty existed in the exact track of Gita. However, NWS Forecasters emphasized the risk of flash floods and mudslides as the interaction of two cyclones led to persistent monsoonal flow across the region.{{cite report |title=Area Forecast Discussion|url=http://mesonet.agron.iastate.edu/wx/afos/p.php?pil=AFDPPG&e=201802090203|publisher=Iowa Environmental Mesonet|date=8 February 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021}} In the two days preceding Gita's arrival, this monsoon trough produced significant rains, reaching {{convert|432|mm|in|abbr=on}}.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=9 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Depression heading towards Samoa expected to become cyclone|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/350051/depression-heading-towards-samoa-expected-to-become-cyclone}} Monsoonal rains continued for two days after Cyclone Gita, and the flash flood watch was finally discontinued on 12 February.{{cite report |title=Flash Flood Watch is Cancelled|url=http://mesonet.agron.iastate.edu/wx/afos/p.php?pil=FFAPPG&e=201802121559|publisher=Iowa Environmental Mesonet|date=12 February 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021}} The American Samoa Emergency Management Agency advised residents to "remain on alert and secure loose items as necessary".{{cite report |title=Tropical Cyclone Gita - Local Statement|url=http://mesonet.agron.iastate.edu/wx/afos/p.php?pil=HLSZS1&e=201802090244|publisher=Iowa Environmental Mesonet|date=8 February 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021}} The tropical storm watch was soon upgraded to a warning, indicating the expected arrival of gale-force winds within 36 hours.{{cite report|publisher=National Weather Service Forecast Office in Pago Pago, American Samoa|date=8 February 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021|title=Tropical Cyclone Gita - Local Statement|url=http://tgftp.nws.noaa.gov/data/raw/wt/wtzs81.nstu.hls.zs1.txt|archiveurl=https://archive.today/20240522014723/https://www.webcitation.org/6x6IKfqYG?url=http://gwydir.demon.co.uk/advisories/WTZS81-NSTU_201802090709.htm|url-status=live|archivedate=22 May 2024}} Pago Pago International Airport suspended operations for the duration of the storm. The NWS discontinued the tropical storm warning late on 9 February as Gita moved away from the territory.{{cite report |title=Tropical Cyclone Gita - Local Statement|url=http://mesonet.agron.iastate.edu/wx/afos/p.php?pil=HLSZS1&e=201802101036|publisher=Iowa Environmental Mesonet|date=9 February 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021}}
Cyclone Gita reached American Samoa on 9 February, bringing heavy rains and strong winds from 4:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. local time. The strongest winds were recorded at the NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory Office in Cape Matatula on Tutuila; sustained values reached {{convert|119|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} and gusts peaked at {{convert|157|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. These winds tore roofs of structures and downed trees and power lines across the territory, with the most severe damage reported in Nuʻuuli and Tafuna.{{cite news|author=Sagapolutele, Fili|newspaper=Samoa News|date=11 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Red Cross damage assessment info|url=http://www.samoanews.com/local-news/red-cross-damage-assessment-info}} Approximately 90 percent of the island was left without power and water and nearly 1,000 people required evacuation.{{cite news|author=Sagapolutele, Fili|publisher=Samoa News|date=11 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Gov. issues emergency declaration, power and water coming back on|url=http://www.samoanews.com/local-news/gov-issues-emergency-declaration-power-and-water-coming-back}} The NWS Office lost power; the Honolulu, Hawaii, office issued forecasts in the interim. Rainfall in Pago Pago exceeded {{convert|155|mm|in|abbr=on|sigfig=1}}.{{cite web|author=Leister, Eric|publisher=AccuWeather|date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Tropical Cyclone Gita leaves trail of destruction from American Samoa to Tonga|url=https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/tropical-cyclone-gita-leaves-trail-of-destruction-from-american-samoa-to-tonga/70004132}} Flash floods and mudslides occurred territory-wide, with valleys and low-lying areas being most affected. Multiple streams flooded and prompted evacuations in Malaeloa village. Landslides were reported in Avau, Amanave, and Poloa.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=8 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Homes evacuated amid flooding in American Samoa|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/349922/homes-evacuated-amid-flooding-in-american-samoa}} Approximately 3,000 people reported damage to their crops.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=20 September 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Thousands of people's crops affected by Gita in American Samoa|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/366855/thousands-of-people-s-crops-affected-by-gita-in-american-samoa}} Destruction of banana, papaya, and breadfruit crops temporarily limited the availability of food.{{cite report|publisher=American Samoa Department of Port Administration|date=21 November 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=American Samoa Ocean Plan|url=https://doc.as/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/AS-Ocean-Plan-FNL-Interactive-2.pdf|archive-date=27 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210427233644/https://doc.as/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/AS-Ocean-Plan-FNL-Interactive-2.pdf|url-status=dead}}{{rp|52}} At the American Samoa National Park, every trail closed.[https://www.talanei.com/2018/02/16/all-trails-in-national-park-are-closed/ All trails in National Park are closed], Talanei.com, February 16, 2018
Offshore, the cargo ship Uila o le Sami sank near Taʻū during the storm. Approximately {{convert|300|yd|m|abbr=on}} off Leone Bay, the Taiwanese-flagged fishing vessel Chui Kai Fa No. 1 grounded on 5 February and split in half.{{cite web|publisher=Coast Guard News|date=10 February 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Port of Pago Pago remains closed following Tropical Cyclone Gita|url=https://coastguardnews.com/port-of-pago-pago-remains-closed-following-tropical-cyclone-gita/2018/02/10/}} The vessel was previously adrift in international waters following a fire on 4 November 2017. The grounding of the Chui Kai Fa No. 1 prompted the closure of the port of Pago Pago until 11 February.{{cite web|first=Sara|last=Muir |publisher=Defense Visual Information Distribution Service|date=11 February 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Coast Guard reopens Port of Pago Pago following Tropical Cyclone Gita, response to grounded fishing vessel resumes|url=https://www.dvidshub.net/news/265582/coast-guard-reopens-port-pago-pago-following-tropical-cyclone-gita-response-grounded-fishing-vessel-resumes}} The vessel contained an estimated {{convert|13000|–|30000|usgal|litre|abbr=on}} of diesel fuel and a light oil sheen was reported in the area.{{cite web|first=Tara|last=Molle |publisher=Defense Visual Information Distribution Service|date=9 February 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Response operations for grounded fishing vessel in American Samoa suspended ahead of Tropical Cyclone Gita|url=https://www.dvidshub.net/news/265502/response-operations-grounded-fishing-vessel-american-samoa-suspended-ahead-tropical-cyclone-gita}} Inclement weather produced by Cyclone Gita impeded response efforts by the United States Coast Guard.{{cite news|first=Eric|last=Haun|publisher=Marine Link|date=8 February 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Fire-stricken Fishing Vessel Grounds in the Samoan Islands|url=https://www.marinelink.com/news/firestricken-fishing433775}}
An assessment by the American Samoa Public Works in March 2018 determined that Cyclone Gita destroyed 387 homes, inflicted major damage to more than 1,300 homes, and damaged a further 1,600.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=21 March 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Increase in number of American Samoa houses damaged by Gita|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/353034/increase-in-number-of-american-samoa-houses-damaged-by-gita}}{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=5 April 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=American Samoan chiefs urge use of federal funds after Gita|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/354202/american-samoan-chiefs-urge-use-of-federal-funds-after-gita}} The American Samoa Department of Commerce estimated that half of the territory's population suffered some form of property loss and placed total damage at US$200 million.{{cite report|publisher=United States Government Accountability Office|date=June 2020|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Economic Trends, Status of the Tuna Canning Industry, and Stakeholders' Views on Minimum Wage Increases|url=https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-20-467.pdf}}{{rp|5}} A 2019 report by the American Samoa Economic Forecast calculated combined direct and indirect losses at US$186 million. The National Centers for Environmental Information calculated a lower damage total of US$52 million. In contrast to the scale of damage, no fatalities or injuries were reported.{{cite report |publisher=National Centers for Environmental Information|year=2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=[Storm Event Report: Tropical Storm]|url=https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/stormevents/eventdetails.jsp?id=743255}}
{{Costliest South Pacific Ocean tropical cyclones|align=left}}
On 10 February, a Coast Guard AC-130 conducted aerial surveys of the territory and a small group of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) personnel were deployed.{{cite news|newspaper=Honolulu Star-Advertiser|date=10 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Tropical storm hits American Samoa with outages, some damage|url=http://www.staradvertiser.com/2018/02/10/breaking-news/tropical-storm-hits-american-samoa-with-outages-some-damage/}} By 18 April, almost 100 federal personnel were deployed to the territory.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=18 April 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=FEMA launches helpline for Asam cyclone aid|url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/355379/fema-launches-helpline-for-asam-cyclone-aid}} United States President Donald Trump declared a state of emergency for American Samoa on 11 February.{{cite press release|date=11 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|work=whitehouse.gov|title=President Donald J. Trump Approves American Samoa Emergency Declaration|via=National Archives|url=https://trumpwhitehouse.archives.gov/briefings-statements/president-donald-j-trump-approves-american-samoa-emergency-declaration/}} The United States Army Reserve assisted FEMA and the American Red Cross with the deployment of personnel and distribution of relief supplies. Furthermore, the Army Reserve Pago Pago facility was converted into a staging area for the disaster response.{{cite web |publisher=Defense Visual Information Distribution Service|date=15 February 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Army Reserve answers first call for disaster support relief in American Samoa|url=https://www.dvidshub.net/news/266377/army-reserve-answers-first-call-disaster-support-relief-american-samoa}} The United Nations Development Programme initiated a US$100,000 response plan on 16 February to support the local governmental response.{{cite report|publisher=United Nations Development Programme|date=16 February 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Tropical Cyclone Gita Emergency Response|url=https://info.undp.org/docs/pdc/Documents/WSM/TC_Gita_Emergency_Response_IP.pdf}} President Trump later declared the territory a major disaster area on 2 March.{{cite report|publisher=Federal Emergency Management Agency|date=2 March 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Preliminary Damage Assessment Report American Samoa – Tropical Storm Gita FEMA-4357-DR|url=https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-03/FEMA4357DRAS.pdf}} Following this declaration, the Internal Revenue Service announced that residents could apply for tax exemptions.{{cite web|publisher=Internal Revenue Service|date=7 March 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Tax Relief for Victims of Tropical Storm Gita in American Samoa|url=https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-for-victims-of-tropical-storm-gita-in-american-samoa}} Health officials advised residents to boil water amid an enhanced risk of dengue fever.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Eight hundred still in shelters in American Samoa|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/350318/eight-hundred-still-in-shelters-in-american-samoa}} StarKist Samoa donated US$50,000 to the American Samoa Government on 16 March.{{cite report |publisher=ReliefWeb|date=16 March 2018|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=StarKist Co. and StarKist Samoa Donate $50,000|url=https://reliefweb.int/report/american-samoa/starkist-co-and-starkist-samoa-donate-50000}} On 9 April 2019, Representative Nita Lowey (D-NY) introduced the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act, 2019 ({{USBill|116|HR|2157}}) bill to the 116th Congress. The bill, signed into law by President Trump on 6 June, provided just over US$17.2 billion for disaster recovery nationwide; of this US$18 million was allocated for American Samoa and made available through February 2020.{{cite act|date=6 June 2019|accessdate=6 April 2021|index=2157|legislature=United States Congress|title=Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act, 2019|url=https://www.congress.gov/116/plaws/publ20/PLAW-116publ20.pdf|format=PDF}}
However, distribution of these funds was delayed and Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga urged the United States Department of Agriculture to expedite the process.{{cite web |via=ReliefWeb|date=8 July 2019|accessdate=6 April 2021|title=Lolo requests the USDA to 'expedite' release of $18M for nutrition assistance|url=https://reliefweb.int/report/american-samoa/lolo-requests-usda-expedite-release-18m-nutrition-assistance}} Through March 2021, FEMA provided US$31,198,512.50 in financial assistance: $20,543,787.44 in individual funds, US$9,763,391.26 for public assistance, and US$891,333.80 for a hazard mitigation program.{{cite web|publisher=Federal Emergency Management Agency|date=March 2021|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=American Samoa Tropical Storm Gita (DR-4357-AS)|url=https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4357}} A further US$40 million was provided through the Small Business Administration, intergovernmental agreements, disaster grants, and private distributions.{{rp|15}}
A prolonged downturn in the territory's tuna industry in the decade preceding Gita led to an economic recession.{{rp|16}} The nationwide reconstruction efforts and the influx of money in the wake of the cyclone spurred slight growth of the American Samoa economy, reflecting in the gross domestic product increasing by 2.2 percent in 2018,{{rp|12}} and a pause in the recession.{{rp|17}} This economic stimulation quickly subsided and American Samoa's economy contracted in 2019.{{cite web|first=Fili|last=Sagapolutele |publisher=ReliefWeb|date=4 April 2019|accessdate=5 April 2021|title=Tropical Storm Gita has some significant effects on American Samoa's GDP and economic forecast|url=https://reliefweb.int/report/american-samoa/tropical-storm-gita-has-some-significant-effects-american-samoas-gdp-and}}
=Tonga=
File:Gita 2018-02-12 1550Z.png on 12 February]]
Prior to and during the cyclone, approximately 5,700 residents sought refuge in public shelters.{{cite news|author=Mair, John|publisher=Reuters|date=12 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Cyclone wreaks havoc in Tonga's capital, parliament flattened, homes wrecked|url=https://in.reuters.com/article/pacific-cyclone/cyclone-wreaks-havoc-in-tongas-capital-parliament-flattened-homes-wrecked-idINKBN1FW2JZ|archive-date=13 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213112041/https://in.reuters.com/article/pacific-cyclone/cyclone-wreaks-havoc-in-tongas-capital-parliament-flattened-homes-wrecked-idINKBN1FW2JZ|url-status=dead}} Power was turned off prior to the storm's arrival. Striking Tonga on 12 February, Cyclone Gita brought destructive winds to the capital island of Tongatapu. Initial surveys across the island revealed 119 homes destroyed and another 1,131 damaged, primarily in Nukuʻalofa.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=14 February 2018|access-date=14 February 2018|title=Cyclone Gita: Tonga recovery could take months|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/350432/cyclone-gita-tonga-recovery-could-take-months}} Many areas were left without water and power.{{cite news|author1=Tapaleao, Vaimoana |author2=Dunlop, Ryan|newspaper=New Zealand Herald |date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Gita's fury: Tropical cyclone hits Tonga and there are now fears for parts of Fiji|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/news/article.cfm?c_id=2&objectid=11993109}} Many structures lost their roof during the height of the storm. Older structures suffered the greatest damage, including the Tongan Parliament building, built more than 100 years ago, which was flattened by the storm.{{cite news|publisher=BBC|date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Tonga parliament building flattened by Cyclone Gita|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-43039931}} Fuaʻamotu International Airport sustained damage, along with the domestic terminal, prompting officials to keep the airport closed. Across Tongatapu, 3 people suffered major injuries while another 30 experienced minor injuries. An elderly woman died while trying to find shelter after her home was destroyed.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Cyclone Gita: Tonga damage worst in decades|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/350353/cyclone-gita-tonga-damage-worst-in-decades}} One person died from a heart attack potentially related to the storm in Fuaʻamotu.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Cyclone Gita: Water, shelter and food main needs in Tonga|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/350257/cyclone-gita-water-shelter-and-food-main-needs-in-tonga}}
On the neighboring island of ʻEua, the storm knocked out power to all residents and caused extensive damage. Similar to Tongatapu, older structures suffered severe damage while newer buildings fared well. Crops were largely destroyed. Fifty-two homes were completely destroyed on the island; eight people suffered injury, including one severe.{{cite news|newspaper=Matangi Tonga|date=15 February 2018|access-date=15 February 2018|title=Severe injury in 'Eua devastation|url=http://matangitonga.to/2018/02/15/severe-injury-eua-devastation}} Total damage were estimated at T$356.1 million (US$164.1 million),{{cite news|publisher=Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery|year=2018|title=Tonga: Rapid Damage Assessment and Recovery Framework for Tropical Cyclone Gita|url=https://www.gfdrr.org/index.php/en/tonga-rapid-damage-assessment-and-recovery-framework-tropical-cyclone-gita}} including a NZ$20 million (US$14.5 million) damage to the power grid.{{cite news|first=Eleanor|last=Gee|newspaper=Matangi Tonga|date=22 February 2018|access-date=23 February 2018|title=Gita power bill a massive NZ$20 million|url=http://matangitonga.to/2018/02/22/gita-power-bill-nz20-million}}
Immediately following the storm, a curfew was imposed for all of Tonga. Personnel from His Majesty's Armed Forces rescued people during the storm and began clearing roads at daybreak on 13 February. National Emergency Management Office spokesman Graham Kenna called the storm "the worst situation [he has] been in" during his 30-year career. MP Lord Fusituʻa described the impact as the worst since at least Cyclone Isaac in 1982. India provided US$500,000 humanitarian aid to Tonga under UNOSSF. On 13 February, Australia provided A$350,000 (US$275,000) in emergency supplies via the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) to assist more than 2,000 people. Australia also sent humanitarian supplies to the Tongan Red Cross. Two civilian humanitarian specialists were deployed to assist Tonga's National Emergency Management Office. A medical expert also provided assistance to assess health infrastructure.{{cite web|work=Government of Australia|publisher=ReliefWeb|date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Australian humanitarian assistance to Tonga|url=https://reliefweb.int/report/tonga/australian-humanitarian-assistance-tonga}} New Zealand provided NZ$750,000 (US$544,000) in assistance.
=Fiji=
During Gita's formative states on 6–8 February, the depression brought heavy rain and gusty winds to northern Fiji resulting in some flooding.{{rp|7}} Accordingly, the FMS issued alerts for these hazards across the affected regions.{{cite news|first=Shratika Naidu|last=Labasa|newspaper=Fiji Sun|date=9 February 2018|accessdate=13 April 2021|title=Tropical Disturbance Moves Away: Fiji Met|url=https://fijisun.com.fj/2018/02/09/tropical-disturbance-moves-away-fiji-met/}} Rainfall reached {{convert|108|mm|in|abbr=on}} in Udu Point on 6 February.{{cite report|publisher=Fiji Meteorological Service|date=8 March 2018|accessdate=13 April 2021|title=Fiji Climate Summary February 2018|url=http://www.met.gov.fj/Summary1.pdf|archivedate=28 July 2018|url-status=live|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180728040155/http://www.met.gov.fj/Summary1.pdf}}
On 13 February, the center of Gita passed roughly {{convert|60|km|mi|abbr=on}} south of Ono-i-Lau in the Lau Islands of Fiji.{{cite news|author=Movono, Lice|newspaper=The Fiji Times|date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=TC Gita: At its closest now|url=http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=434475|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213060846/http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=434475|archive-date=13 February 2018|url-status=dead}} Observations from the island revealed peak sustained winds of {{convert|135|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} with gusts to {{convert|190|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}. Twenty-four hour rainfall reached {{convert|270.7|mm|in|abbr=on}}, greatly contributing to the island experiencing its wettest February on record; the monthly total was {{convert|887.9|mm|in|abbr=on}}. Flooding from tidal surge preceded the core of the cyclone by several hours.{{cite news|author=Naleba, Mere|newspaper=The Fiji Times|date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=TC Gita: Tidal surge reported on Ono-i-Lau|url=http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=434468|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213031253/http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=434468|archive-date=13 February 2018|url-status=dead}} Structural damage was reported in Doi Village, including one home that lost its roof.{{cite news|author=Naleba, Mere|newspaper=The Fiji Times|date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=TC Gita: Rooftop gone at Doi|url=http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=434470|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213021341/http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=434470|archive-date=13 February 2018|url-status=dead}} Communications with Ono-i-Lai and nearby Vatoa were disrupted for roughly a day.{{cite news|publisher=TVNZ|date=13 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Cyclone Gita moves away from Fiji but communication lost with islands in Southern Lau group|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/world/cyclone-gita-moves-away-fiji-but-communication-lost-islands-in-southern-lau-group}} Across both islands, 10 homes were destroyed and 26 more sustained damage.{{cite news|author=Maika Bolatiki|newspaper=Fiji Sun|date=15 February 2018|access-date=15 February 2018|title=10 Houses Destroyed, 26 Partly Damaged On Islands|url=http://fijisun.com.fj/2018/02/15/10-houses-destroyed-26-partly-damaged-on-islands/}} Many structures sustained roof damage and crops were devastated. Local leaders on Ono-i-Lau called the storm the "worst in living memory".{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=14 February 2018|access-date=14 February 2018|title=Cyclone Gita 'worst in living memory' on Fiji's Ono-i-Lau|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/350372/cyclone-gita-worst-in-living-memory-on-fiji-s-ono-i-lau}} Damage to the nation were at FJ$1.23 million (US$606,000).{{cite news|publisher=Fiji Broadcasting Corporation|date=19 March 2018|access-date=19 March 2018|title=TC Gita damage cost stands at $1.23m|url=http://www.fbc.com.fj/fiji/61261/tc-gita-damage-cost-stands-at-1-23m}}
=New Caledonia=
On 16 February, the New Caledonia branch of Météo-France issued a level 1 hurricane alert for the Isle of Pines, southeast Grande Terre.{{cite report |publisher=ReliefWeb|date=16 February 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021|title=Cyclone Tropical Gita: Déclenchement de l'alerte cyclonique de niveau 1 le vendredi 16 février 2018 à 05h00|url=https://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/communique_dscgr_du_15_fevrier_2018_a_21h30_cyclone_gita.pdf|language=French}} This was soon raised to level 2, prompting the closure of schools and businesses across the municipality.{{cite report |publisher=ReliefWeb|date=16 February 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021|title=Cyclone Tropical Gita : Déclenchement de l'alerte cyclonique de niveau 2 le vendredi 16 février 2018 à 17h00 sur l'Ile des Pins|url=https://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/communique_dscgr_du_16_fevrier_2018_a_11h30_cyclone_gita.pdf|language=French}} In advance of the storm, most tourists visiting Isle of Pines were evacuated to Nouméa; however, many stayed to ride out the storm. Municipal buildings were opened to the public as shelters.{{cite news|language=French |publisher=20 minutes|date=16 February 2018|access-date=16 February 2018|title=Nouvelle-Calédonie: Alerte cyclonique maximale à l'île des Pins|url=https://www.20minutes.fr/monde/2222047-20180216-nouvelle-caledonie-alerte-cyclonique-maximale-ile-pins}} Domestic flights at Nouméa Magenta Airport were suspended during the storm's passage.{{cite news|language=French|publisher=Ouest-France|date=16 February 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021|title=Gita, ce cyclone qui fait trembler la Nouvelle-Calédonie|url=https://www.ouest-france.fr/meteo/nouvelle-caledonie-gita-ce-cyclone-qui-fait-trembler-l-ile-des-pins-5569472}} Offshore, removal operations of the grounded cargo ship Kea Trader—situated over Récif Durand about {{convert|220|km|mi|abbr=on}} east of Nouméa{{cite news|first=Clement|last=Renault|publisher=Medium|date=17 October 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021|title=Maritime accidents: The grounding of Kea Trader|url=https://medium.com/shone-blog/maritime-accidents-the-grounding-of-kea-trader-78483aa8bf08}}—were suspended with workers repositioned to Nouméa. The two broken halves of the ship were ballasted to minimize movement in the expected rough seas.{{cite news|language=French|publisher=Ouest-France|date=15 February 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021|title=Cyclone Gita. La Nouvelle-Calédonie en pré-alerte avant l'arrivée du cyclone|url=https://www.ouest-france.fr/catastrophes/ouragan/cyclone-gita-la-nouvelle-caledonie-en-pre-alerte-avant-l-arrivee-du-cyclone-5567446}} The cyclone ultimately had little effect across the territory; some damage to vegetation and marinas was reported.{{cite news|language=French|publisher=Ouest-France|date=17 February 2018|accessdate=6 April 2021|title=Nouvelle-Calédonie. Levée de toutes les alertes cycloniques, pas de dégât important|url=https://www.ouest-france.fr/monde/nouvelle-caledonie/nouvelle-caledonie-levee-de-toutes-les-alertes-cycloniques-pas-de-degat-important-5571629}}
=Australia=
File:Launching off the crest (38578606820).jpg
While located nearly {{convert|1000|km|mi|abbr=on}} east of Queensland on 17 February, large swells propagating from the cyclone impacted Australia's Pacific beaches. Conditions remained hazardous through 19 February. Surf was largest from Gold Coast to Sydney, with peak swells of {{convert|6|m|ft|abbr=on}} at Tweed Heads and {{convert|4.5|m|ft|abbr=on}} at Palm Beach.{{cite web|date=19 February 2018|accessdate=10 April 2021|website=Stuff |title=Australian beaches closed as dangerous swell slams coast in wake of Tropical Cyclone Gita|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/world/australia/101582787/australian-beaches-closed-as-dangerous-swell-slams-coast-in-wake-of-tropical-cyclone-gita}} Surf Life Saving Queensland closed all beaches between North Kirra and Southport. Although most people heeded warnings and closures, some "thrillseekers" surfed and used jet skis. One person required rescue in the Jumpinpin Channel.{{cite news|first=Michelle|last=Rafferty|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=17 February 2018|accessdate=10 April 2021|title=Cyclone Gita: Big surf thrills locals on Queensland's Gold Coast|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-02-18/big-surf-whipped-up-cyclone-thrills-locals-qld-gold-coast/9459210}} A surfer and swimmer were pulled from dangerous rip currents at Burleigh and Mooloolaba, respectively.{{cite news|first=Toby|last=Crockford|newspaper=Brisbane Times|date=17 February 2018|accessdate=10 April 2021|title=South-east beaches close en masse as dangerous surf pounds coast|url=https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/south-east-beaches-close-en-masse-as-dangerous-surf-pounds-coast-20180217-p4z0op.html}} Off Nambucca Heads, New South Wales, one person was pulled out to sea by rip currents on 17 February. Surf Life Saving New South Wales stated that rescue operations shifted to recovery the following day as there had been "a significant amount of time since this gentleman disappeared". Helicopters conducted aerial surveys on 19 February to assist local police and rescuers.{{cite news|author=Kelder|newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|date=19 February 2018|accessdate=10 April 2021|title=Search for missing swimmer enters its second day|url=https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/coffs-harbour/search-for-missing-swimmer-enters-its-second-day/news-story/5151048d2f07da28136b4d88447a1857}} Search and rescue operations were ultimately suspended on 21 February without success.{{cite news|author=Kelder|newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|date=21 February 2018|accessdate=10 April 2021|title=Search for missing Queensland swimmer suspended|url=https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/coffs-harbour/search-for-missing-queensland-swimmer-suspended/news-story/e12bed94ff74450ecd18ae4bc2da5aef}} Two people were rescued off the coast of Manly when their boat sank amid {{convert|2|m|ft|abbr=on}} swells. Throughout New South Wales, authorities conducted dozens of rescues.{{cite news|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=18 February 2018|accessdate=10 April 2021|title=Man missing as dangerous swell from cyclone causes havoc along NSW coast|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-02-18/hazardous-swell-causes-havoc-along-nsw-coast/9459358}}
=New Zealand=
File:Kaiteriteri Mountain Bike Park 096.jpg Mountain Bike Park]]
As Cyclone Gita threatened to hit New Zealand as a strong ex-tropical cyclone, New Zealand's MetService issued heavy rain warnings and strong wind warnings covering a wide expanse of the country.{{Cite news|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/101550169/preparing-for-cyclone-gita|title=Preparing for Cyclone Gita: What you need to know|date=19 February 2018|work=Stuff |access-date=19 February 2018}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.express.co.uk/travel/articles/921022/cyclone-gita-news-travel-advice-warning-new-zealand-flights|title=Cyclone Gita: Travel warning as category 5 tropical storm threatens New Zealand flights|last=Godfrey|first=Kara|date=19 February 2018|work=Express.co.uk|access-date=20 February 2018|language=en}} Campers, hikers, and boaters in the Marlborough Sounds were told to evacuate, and residents there were warned that communications could be cut off by the storm.{{Cite news|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/101540481/cyclone-gita-new-zealand-braces-for-storm-state-of-emergency-considered|title=Cyclone Gita: New Zealand braces for storm, huge seas expected|last1=Lewis|first1=Oliver|last2=Daly|first2=Michael|date=19 February 2018|work=Stuff |access-date=19 February 2018}} Several schools in the region of Nelson were closed, while in the West Coast, schools in the districts of Buller and Grey were closed.{{Cite news|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/west-coast-residents-battening-down-cyclone-gita-eyes-new-zealand-200mm-rain-huge-waves-and-140km-h-winds|title=West Coast residents battening down as Cyclone Gita eyes New Zealand with 200mm of rain, huge waves and 140km/h winds|date=19 February 2018|work=Television New Zealand|access-date=19 February 2018|archive-date=20 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220033151/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/west-coast-residents-battening-down-cyclone-gita-eyes-new-zealand-200mm-rain-huge-waves-and-140km-h-winds|url-status=dead}} Air New Zealand cancelled a number of flights on 20 February.{{Cite web|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/travel/travel-troubles/101599895/former-cyclone-gita-air-new-zealand-cancels-all-wellington-flights|title=Former Cyclone Gita: Air New Zealand cancels all Wellington flights|website=Stuff |date=20 February 2018 |language=en|access-date=20 February 2018}}
As Gita bore down on the South Island, bringing floods and strong winds, a state of emergency was eventually declared on 20 February.{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-43123148|title=Gita: State of emergency as storm hits New Zealand|date=20 February 2018|work=British Broadcasting Corporation|access-date=20 February 2018}} Total insured losses across New Zealand reached NZ$35.6 million (US$26.1 million).{{Cite report |publisher=World Meteorological Organization|date=23 July 2018|accessdate=10 April 2021|title=Review of the 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 Cyclone Seasons|url=https://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/Documents/RAV_TCC-17_DOC4.1.2_TCWC-Wellington-Report_FINAL.pdf}} In Taranaki, Gita resulted in NZ$4.5 million (US$3.1 million) worth of damage. A tree fell on a water main near the water treatment plant south of New Plymouth, leaving 10,000 homes without water for 3 days and 26,000 homes on a boil water notice for 7 days.{{Cite news|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/news/109474410/report-into-excyclone-gita-response-identifies-45m-cost-and-28-areas-for-improvement|title=Report into ex-cyclone Gita response identifies $4.5m cost and 28 areas for improvement|last=Persico|first=Christina|date=19 December 2018|work=Stuff |access-date=25 March 2021|language=en}}
=Other nations=
As Gita's precursor tropical disturbance impacted Vanuatu's Torba province during 6 February, the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department warned that heavy rainfall, thunder and lightning would impact the area and advised people to take extra precautions.{{cite web|title=Heavy rainfall expected in Torba province|author=Daniel, Brenda |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213080343/https://vanuatuindependent.com/2018/02/06/heavy-rainfall-expected-torba-province/|publisher=The Vanuatu Independent News Magazine|date=6 February 2018|access-date=12 February 2018|url=https://vanuatuindependent.com/2018/02/06/heavy-rainfall-expected-torba-province/|url-status=dead|archive-date=13 February 2018}} Additional alerts were raised on 15–16 February as Gita tracked southeast of the nation.{{cite report |publisher=World Meteorological Organization|date=26 July 2018|accessdate=10 April 2021|title=Review of the 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 Cyclone Seasons|url=https://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/Documents/RAV_TCC-17_DOC4.2.5_Vanuatu.pdf}} Between 8 and 9 February, the system brought strong winds and heavy rain to Wallis and Futuna. Some power outages were reported on Wallis, though overall effects were negligible. On 8 February, weather alerts were issued for Niue as Gita approached from the northeast.{{cite report |publisher=World Meteorological Organization|date=20 June 2018|accessdate=10 April 2021|title=Review of the 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 Cyclone Seasons|url=https://www.wmo.int/pages/prog/www/Documents/RAV_TCC-17_DOC4.2.1_Niue.pdf}} The cyclone bypassed the island to the southeast the following day with minimal effects.{{cite news|publisher=Radio New Zealand |date=11 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|title=Niue spared as Cyclone Gita picks up strength|url=https://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/350132/niue-spared-as-cyclone-gita-picks-up-strength}} Sustained winds at Niue International Airport reached {{convert|40|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} with gusts to {{convert|64|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}.
See also
{{Portal|Tropical cyclones}}
- Weather of 2017 and 2018
- Tropical cyclones in 2017 and 2018
- Cyclone Ofa (1990)
- Cyclone Hina (1997)
- Cyclone Waka (2001)
- Cyclone Heta (2003)
- Cyclone Ian (2014)
- Cyclone Winston (2016)
Notes
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References
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External links
{{Commons category}}
{{SPAC EL's}}
{{2017–18 South Pacific cyclone season buttons}}
{{Retired South Pacific cyclones}}
{{Category 5 South Pacific severe tropical cyclones}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Gita (2018)}}
Category:2017–18 South Pacific cyclone season
Category:Category 5 South Pacific cyclones
Category:February 2018 in Oceania
Category:Tropical cyclones in American Samoa
Category:Tropical cyclones in Samoa
Category:Tropical cyclones in Tonga
Category:Tropical cyclones in Vanuatu
Category:Tropical cyclones in Fiji
Category:Tropical cyclones in Niue
Category:Tropical cyclones in Wallis and Futuna
Category:2018 in American Samoa
Category:2018 in Wallis and Futuna
Category:2018 in New Caledonia
Category:Retired South Pacific cyclones
Category:Tropical cyclones in New Caledonia