RNZ Pacific Activates Cyclone Watch Service for 2025–2026 Season

The service will deliver vital weather updates to Pacific communities as the cyclone season begins across the South Pacific.

Introduction

The South Pacific cyclone season officially began today, 1 November 2025, and will run through to April 2026. To keep communities informed and safe, RNZ Pacific has reactivated its Cyclone Watch Service, a trusted source of critical weather updates across the region.

Background

Every year, the South Pacific braces for several tropical cyclones between November and April. Meteorologists expect five to nine cyclones during the 2025–2026 season. These storms can cause severe damage to homes, infrastructure, and communication networks in island nations.

For decades, RNZ Pacific has played an essential role in helping residents prepare for these events by broadcasting timely and reliable information even when local systems go down.

Key Details

The Cyclone Watch Service will operate throughout the season, providing hourly updates whenever a cyclone alert is issued. The updates include:

• Official bulletins from national meteorological services across the region.
• On-the-ground reports from local authorities, NGOs, and community members.
• Urgent changes in cyclone tracks, intensity, or warnings.

When cyclones disrupt power and communication lines, RNZ Pacific’s shortwave transmitter ensures that people in remote or isolated areas can still receive life-saving information.

The network’s broadcasts cover multiple Pacific territories, including Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Niue, and the Cook Islands. Updated shortwave frequencies for the new season have been shared to help listeners tune in from anywhere.

Public Reaction and Local Voices

Pacific communities have long relied on RNZ Pacific as a dependable lifeline during extreme weather. One listener said, “When the storm cut off our local radio last year, RNZ Pacific was the only voice we could hear. It gave us hope and direction.”

Local authorities have also praised the service for providing trusted information that helps coordinate disaster response and recovery efforts.

Expert and Official View

Meteorologists across the region say early preparation is key. They encourage households to keep emergency kits ready and stay tuned to official updates.
An RNZ Pacific spokesperson said the team will “do everything possible to keep people informed on-air, online, and through social media platforms like Facebook.”

The broadcaster continues to work closely with meteorological agencies and disaster management offices to share accurate, real-time updates as conditions change.

Conclusion

As the cyclone season unfolds, RNZ Pacific’s Cyclone Watch Service stands ready once again to support Pacific communities. Its commitment to reliable communication during crises makes it one of the most trusted voices in the region. Staying informed and prepared can make all the difference when the next storm approaches.

Photo: RNZ Pacific / Cyclone Watch Service 2025–2026