Polynesia’s Southern Tuamotu and Gambier Islands Under Orange Alert for High Waves
PAPEETE, Tahiti - November 15, 2025 (AFP) – Authorities in French Polynesia have issued an orange-level alert for wave submersion across the southern Tuamotu and Gambier Islands, anticipating significant swells beginning Saturday. Météo-France, the region’s meteorological service, forecasts hazardous marine conditions impacting coastal communities and maritime activities.
The alert centers on a south-sector swell expected to reach Tematangi, Moruroa, and Mangareva during Saturday morning (evening in Paris time). Wave heights are predicted to build between 4 and 4.5 meters. This event will persist throughout the day, gradually diminishing overnight into Sunday, with waves remaining between 3.50 and 4 meters. The tuamotu and Gambier archipelagos are particularly vulnerable to swells due to their low-lying atoll geography, making even moderate wave heights potentially perilous.
The High Commissioner of the Republic in French Polynesia has urged residents in the affected areas to exercise extreme caution and adhere to all safety guidelines. Specifically, recreational boaters, fishermen, and divers are advised to postpone any planned excursions at sea.Coastal residents are asked to secure their property and exercise vigilance while traveling near the shoreline.
Météo-France’s bulletin emphasizes the need for continued monitoring as the situation evolves.The alert underscores the importance of preparedness in the face of increasingly frequent and intense weather events in the Pacific region.
