The Manus Provincial Education Board (PEB) has issued a delay notice for the start of term 2 due to severe weather.
In a memorandum to the school principals, head teachers and teacher-in-charge, board chairman Aaron Kepo issued the notice following urgent directive from the National Weather Service (NWS). The service warned of north-west gale force winds and high seas caused by a tropical low. They advised vessels and dinghies to avoid travel during this period.
The start of term 2 on Manus has been deferred to Monday, 20th of April in order to ensure the safety of the students and staff who rely on dinghy for travel. However, the public has also been advised to monitor the weather closely before making any attempts to travel.
The severe weather is a result of Cyclone Maila passing through the Solomon Sea with Milne Bay and the New Guinea Islands being impacted with gales and high rain.