Cyclone Zazu continues to weaken as it is now moving away from Samoa, causing the country a heavy rainfall, which will persist over the next 24 hours.

Zazu has currently maximum winds of 101 km/h (55 kt) and gusts of 129 km/h (70 kt).

The storm will dissipate over the next day or two as there are no further landmasses in its way.

Update: 15th of December, 11:00 a.m. UTC

Newly formed tropical cyclone Zazu continues to strengthen in the South Pacific Ocean with general south-southeast motion at 19.0S 173.6W. Zazu has passed over western Vava'u today, bringing destructive storm force winds, thunderstorms and high seas.

Maximum sustainable winds are 83 km/h (45 kt).

Gale and damaging swell warning has been issued for Eua, Ha'apai, Tongatapu. Heavy rainfall warning is in effect for Ha'apai, Niuas, and Vava'u.

Cyclone is expected to further strengthen as it moves away from Tonga and possibly reach Category 2 on December 16th, then gradually weaken by Dec 17.