People on the Island of Vatoa started to experience strong winds at around 9pm tonight.

Vatoa villager Ledua Viniana told FBC News they started to prepare during daylight after weather reports that Tropical Cyclone Winston will affect the Lau Group overnight.

Viniana says there hasn’t been any heavy rain but strong winds continue.

In Matuku, District Representative Varanisese Gade says there has been heavy downpour but nothing to cause any concern as yet.

Reports from Vanuabalavu indicate that the weather is okay at the moment.

Tropical Cyclone Winston is expected to pass close to the islands of Ono-i-Lau and Kadavu overnight, bringing with it strong winds and rough seas.