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Cyclone Lola seen in satellite imagery. Photo: MetService
The number of cyclones in the south Pacific is expected to increase this year because of El Nino.
The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research says elevated cyclone activity is expected for Vanuatu, Fiji and the Northern Cook Islands.
More severe cyclones with sustained winds surpassing 119 kilometres per hour are also predicted.
NIWA meteorologist Ben Noll speaks with RNZ Pacific's Caleb Fotheringham.