13 Dec 2021

Cyclone Ruby set to strengthen

3:48 pm on 13 December 2021

Category Two Cyclone Ruby was about 500 kilometres northwest of New Caledonia's Belep Islands early this afternoon.

The Belep Islands are to the northwest of New Caledonia's main island, Grand Terre.

Winds at Ruby's centre are about 110 kilometres an hour with gusts up to 170 kilometres.

The cyclone is now expected to intensify further and become a Category three as it move over New Caledonia tomorrow.

Tropical Cyclone Ruby

Tropical Cyclone Ruby Photo: Fiji Meteorological Service

On its current forecast track, Ruby is expected to bring gale to storm force winds, heavy rain, and high waves to much of New Caledonia tomorrow.

The system is expected to pass close to the main island on Tuesday, lying 85 kilometres northeast of Noumea by evening.