Cyclone Winston facts for kids

Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston was a very powerful tropical cyclone that hit in February 2016. It was the first ever Category 5 storm to strike Fiji. This means it was incredibly strong, with very high winds. Winston was also one of the most powerful tropical cyclones ever recorded in the Southern Hemisphere.

Before the storm reached Fiji, many safe places called shelters were opened for people. A curfew was put in place across the whole country on February 20. This meant people had to stay indoors for their safety. When Winston hit Fiji on February 20, it caused a lot of damage to many islands. Sadly, 44 people lost their lives because of the storm.

What Happened During Cyclone Winston?

When Cyclone Winston hit Fiji, it was a Category 5 storm. This is the highest level for a tropical cyclone, meaning it had extreme winds and heavy rain. Many islands were badly affected.

Impact on People and Homes

The storm caused a lot of destruction. Communication with at least six islands was lost for a while. Some islands remained cut off for more than two days after the cyclone passed.

About 40,000 homes were either damaged or completely destroyed. Around 350,000 people, which is almost half of Fiji's population, were seriously affected by the storm.

Government Response and Help

The government of Fiji declared a state of emergency on February 20. This special status lasted for 60 days. It helped the government quickly get aid and support to the affected areas.

Right after the cyclone, countries like Australia and New Zealand sent help. They provided important supplies and support. In the weeks that followed, many international groups and countries also sent millions of dollars in aid and tons of supplies to help the people in Fiji recover.

Images for kids

• 

  Winston reaching its initial peak intensity, southeast of Vanuatu on 12 February

• 

  Winston east of Queensland, with subtropical characteristics on 27 February

• 

  Winston making landfall in Viti Levu on 20 February

• 

  A home largely destroyed by the storm in Tailevu Province

• 

  Large swells in Gold Coast, Queensland injured multiple people and prompted the closure of beaches

• 

  The eye of Winston over Koro Island on February 20

• 

  A school destroyed by the storm in Tailevu Province

• 

  Koro Island before (left) and after (right) Winston. Severe defoliation is readily seen with the island's green landscape turned brown.

• 

  Relief supplies from Australian AID being loaded into aircraft for delivery to Koro Island.

See also

In Spanish: Ciclón Winston para niños