CYCLONE Oma is slowing down and gathering strength as it sits off Vanuatu’s Santo for a third straight day.
The storm, still a category two, is about 295 kilometres west-southwest of the country’s largest island.
It has followed an unusual path and completed three loops off Santo’s western coast.
Because of this, the island has been lashed with torrential rains, strong storm surges and winds in excess of 100 kilometres an hour.
The Vanuatu Meteorological Service says Oma is proving difficult to forecast, but it is gradually moving southwest away from Vanuatu.
However, storm warnings are still in force for at least the next 24 hours.
Meanwhile, Sir Vanuatu has announced that it will resume all domestic flights as scheduled.
It said all ATR domestic services, flights to southern provinces and all international services will operate as scheduled this weekend.
“Our team are closely monitoring the weather situation and further updates will be provided as when they become available,” said a spokesman.
“Customers impacted by the recent flights suspensions are encouraged to reconfirm their flights and update their local contact details via MY BOOKING on www.airvanuatu.com or contact the Air Vanuatu Reservation team.”