Cyclone hits Tonga

Tropical Cyclone Gita, the strongest storm ever in Tonga’s recorded history, made landfall on the islands of Tonga on Feb. 12 with winds over 145 miles per hour. 

The storm damaged infrastructure as well as multiple buildings on Tongatapu and ‘Eua islands, even destroying the island nation’s 100-year-old Parliament House. It is estimated that some areas may be without power or shelter for months. One person was reported killed.

During the storm, The nation opened up multiple evacuation centers across its islands to house residents.