Tropical Cyclone Wati Forms Near Cook Islands, With Further Strengthening Forecast

Tropical Cyclone Wati formed near the Cook Islands, with RSMC Nadi classifying it as a Category 1 system in its October 16 warning. At 18:00 UTC, the cyclone had maximum sustained winds of 40 knots and was moving southeast at 8 knots. The regional forecasting centre described Wati as intensifying and forecast sustained winds of 60 knots by 18:00 UTC on October 17. Fiji Meteorological Service's forecast track projected Category 2 strength from 12:00 UTC on October 17, with the centre continuing southward.