A tropical cyclone alert is in force for Tonga, with a strong wind warning for all Tonga land areas
The alert covers the Ha'apai and Vava'u groups, Niuafo'ou and Niuatoputapu Group.
A tropical depression is located some 300km west-southwest of Niuafo'ou.
Forecasters say it could become a tropical cyclone in the next 36 to 48 hours, and will bring damaging gale force winds.
