PRIME MINISTER MARAPE ASSURES NATION OF READINESS AS TROPICAL CYCLONE THREATENS PARTS OF PNG
Prime Minister James Marape. File picture
Prime Minister James Marape has issued a strong message of preparedness, assurance, and coordinated national response as Papua New Guinea braces for the impact of Tropical Cyclone “Maila”, which is currently active in the Solomon Sea and moving within proximity of the country’s eastern and south-eastern regions.
Marape confirmed in a statement that the National Disaster Centre, provincial authorities, and all relevant state agencies have been placed on heightened alert following official warnings from the Papua New Guinea National Weather Service.
According to the latest weather advisories, Cyclone Maila has intensified into a strong system, with sustained winds estimated at over 140 km/h and gusts exceeding 200 km/h, posing serious risks to coastal and island communities.
The cyclone is currently located in the Solomon Sea, north-east of Milne Bay, and is expected to affect:
• Milne Bay Province (including island communities such as Misima, Rossel, and Woodlark)
• the Autonomous Region of Bougainville
• eastern and south-eastern coastal areas of mainland PNG
• nearby island chains within the region
Authorities have warned of:
• heavy rainfall and potential flooding
• damaging winds
• coastal inundation and storm surges
The system remains unpredictable, with possible strengthening as it tracks across the region before moving towards the Coral Sea.
Government response and preparedness
Prime Minister Marape said the Government is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all citizens in potentially affected areas.
“The National Government stands ready to work with district authorities, LLGs, provincial governments, and the Autonomous Bougainville Government to assist in terms of relief, care, and restoration,” Mr Marape said.
He confirmed that disaster preparedness mechanisms have been activated, with the National Disaster Centre coordinating closely with:
• provincial disaster committees
• security forces
• health and emergency services
• local-level governments and district administrations
“I want to give assurance to all in those affected areas — we will come right away to assist in the immediate relief, as well as the long-term restoration of your lives,” the Prime Minister added.
International support on standby
Prime Minister Marape also revealed that international partners have already reached out in support of Papua New Guinea’s preparedness efforts.
“I want to confirm that the Australian Government has reached out. They are on standby to assist wherever they can be utilised,” he said.
In addition, global communications provider Starlink has indicated readiness to assist in maintaining connectivity in affected and isolated communities.
“For communication purposes, Starlink is also on standby to assist communities who have been affected and displaced,” Mr Marape confirmed.
Call for public vigilance
The Prime Minister urged all citizens, particularly those in vulnerable coastal and island regions, to remain alert and strictly follow official advisories issued by authorities.
“We call on all our people to take precautionary measures, move to safer locations where necessary, and listen carefully to instructions from authorities,” he said.
Communities are strongly advised to:
• secure homes and essential supplies
• avoid coastal and flood-prone areas
• prepare emergency kits
• stay informed through official weather updates
Whole-of-government commitment
Mr Marape reiterated that disaster response remains a top priority under the Government’s agenda, emphasizing that no citizen will be left behind.
“This Government will stand with our people in times of disaster. We are committed not only to immediate response but to rebuilding stronger communities after the cyclone passes,” he said.
