A tropical cyclone named WATI-26 is active in the South Pacific and is affecting the Cook Islands, according to an Orange-level alert from GDACS, the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System run by the EU Joint Research Centre. The system was tracked from 16 to 17 October 2026, with maximum sustained winds of about 130 km/h (roughly 80 mph) – equivalent to a Category 1 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
An estimated 4,982 people in the Cook Islands are within the zone expected to experience Category 1-strength winds (around 120 km/h) or higher. The islands’ overall vulnerability to this type of storm is rated Medium, meaning some damage to buildings, crops, power lines, and boats is possible, but widespread catastrophic destruction is not the expected outcome at this wind strength.
What residents and travelers might notice
People in the affected islands can expect strong, damaging gusts, heavy rain, rough seas, and possible coastal flooding in low-lying areas. Power and communications outages, fallen trees, and disruptions to inter-island boats and flights are realistic possibilities. Rough surf and dangerous rip currents will likely persist even after the strongest winds pass.
If you are in the Cook Islands, sensible steps include: securing loose outdoor items, stocking drinking water and non-perishable food for several days, charging phones and power banks, staying indoors and away from windows during the worst winds, and avoiding beaches, harbors, and flooded roads. Travelers should confirm flight and ferry schedules directly with operators, as cancellations are common during cyclone passages. Continue to follow instructions from Cook Islands emergency authorities and local radio broadcasts.
Wind estimates and affected-population figures come from GDACS, the EU Joint Research Centre’s Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System, which draws on tropical cyclone tracking data from international meteorological agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How strong is Cyclone WATI-26?
Maximum sustained winds are about 130 km/h (around 80 mph), equivalent to a Category 1 hurricane. That is strong enough to damage roofs, trees, and power lines, but it is not a major Category 3+ storm.
How many people are affected?
GDACS estimates roughly 4,982 people in the Cook Islands are in the area expected to see Category 1-strength winds or higher.
Is it safe to travel to or between the Cook Islands right now?
Expect disruptions: flights and inter-island ferries are frequently delayed or cancelled during cyclone passages. Check directly with your airline or ferry operator before traveling and follow local authority guidance.
What should I do right now if I'm in the Cook Islands?
Secure loose items outdoors, stock water and food for a few days, charge devices, and stay indoors away from windows during the strongest winds. Avoid beaches, coastal areas, and flooded roads until officials give the all-clear.
Keep tracking this:
Source: GDACS (EU Joint Research Centre)
Related Reading
Map centered on the epicenter (-14.80, -163.20). Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.
Sky & Solar Conditions at the Time
Moon: Waxing Crescent (29% illuminated), in Sagittarius.
Notable planetary angles: Mars trine Saturn (120°), Sun sextile Jupiter (61°).
Concurrent space weather: planetary Kp index 2.7; strongest recent solar flare: nothing notable.
This is a factual snapshot, not a claim of cause and effect – researchers are divided on whether lunar, planetary or solar factors influence seismic or weather activity. It’s included so readers can track the pattern for themselves over time.
