TC Pam Generates Surge Flooding on Tuvalu from ~700 Miles (1125 km) away!

On Thursday, March 12, Severe Tropical Cyclone Pam generated storm surge flooding on Vaitupu Island, Tuvalu, from approximately 700 miles (1125 km) away! This large, powerful tropical cyclone is obviously displacing some serious water, and will likely generate life-threatening storm surges in the island nations of Vanuatu and Fiji.

 Severe Tropical Cyclone Pam generated storm surge and waves that flooded portions of Vaitupu Island, Tavalu, on Thursday, March 12th. At the time of this flooding, Pam was centered approximately 700 miles (1125 km) to the southwest. Image: @Niuslady

 Severe Tropical Cyclone Pam generated storm surge and waves that flooded portions of Vaitupu Island, Tavalu, on Thursday, March 12th. At the time of this flooding, Pam was centered approximately 700 miles (1125 km) to the southwest. Image: @Niuslady

Storm surge will be highest where the most intense winds blow onshore. Surges along island chains are often quite localized, as one location experiences a strong onshore wind and high surge, while locations nearby may experience strong offshore winds and low/modest surges. A lot depends on the direction the coastline faces, as well as the presence of bays and inlets, which tend to enhance surge during onshore winds.

This map provides georeferenced storm surge photos and videos, as well as Pam's storm track. It will be updated regularly though this storm. Stay safe, everybody!

This map provides georeferenced storm surge photos and videos, as well as Pam's storm track