accuweather.com – Kristina Pydynowski
At least eight people are dead in the wake of powerful Tropical Cyclone Pam, which is now tracking toward northern New Zealand. Despite undergoing some weakening, Pam remains a dangerous tropical cyclone with its strength equal to that of a Category 4 hurricane.
Pam reached its peak intensity on Friday, local time, with maximum sustained winds of nearly 270 kph (167 mph), the equivalent of a Category 5 hurricane or a super typhoon. At that time, Pam was unleashing its fury on the islands of Vanuatu, a country between Fiji and the mainland of Australia. Reuters reports that at least eight people have died from the devastating cyclone. That total is expected to rise. Massive power outages occurred across the entire island of Vanuatu from Pam, leaving many communications down.
Be safe Roz!!!!