25 Jan 2011

Major destruction on Tonga's Ha'apai from Cyclone Wilma

6:38 pm on 25 January 2011

There are reports of major damage in Tonga's Ha'apai Island group after it was hit by Cyclone Wilma earlier today.

Radio Tonga reports that schools, buildings and fishing boats have been wrecked by the storm, but there are no reports of casualties.

Radio Tonga's, Moimoi Fakahua, who's in Pangai in Ha'apai, says the dormitory of Tailulu College has collapsed and the roof of the school's science laboratary has been ripped off.

The governor's residence has also been damaged while two town halls have collapsed.

He says a number of fishing boats have been washed ashore and fallen trees are blocking roads.

Meanwhile, the hurricane warning previously in force for much of Tonga has been cancelled though gale force winds are still expected as the cyclone moves away to the southwest.