Fiji declares nationwide curfew as Cyclone Winston approaches

Fiji has declared a nationwide curfew as people are urged to seek refuge from a cyclone that could be the most powerful in the island's history.

Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama urged Fijians to prepare themselves for a "terrible event" he told local media, adding: "We cannot afford to be complacent."

Cyclone Winston caused havoc in nearby Tonga last week and has since re-intensified. With winds of up to 230 km per hour (143 mph) and gusts of up 325 kph (202), it is now heading towards Suva, the capital of Fiji.

Airlines have suspended both international and domestic flights and the government have imposed the curfew from 6pm local time. It will remain in place until further notice.