Vanuatu braces for impact of Cyclone Lola

A tropical cyclone is bearing down on parts of Vanuatu, with forecasters predicting winds could reach more than 300 km/h.

The northern provinces of Torba, Sanma, Penama and Malampa are likely to be hit by "very destructive hurricane force winds", according to the Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-hazards Department.

Severe Tropical Cyclone Lola Category 5 is heading for Vanuatu. Photo/Fiji Meteorological Service

The cyclone is picking up strength as it moves towards Vanuatu, with Fiji Met Service upgrading it to a Category 5 - the highest level on the cyclone scale.

Aid agencies in Vanuatu are preparing for the cyclone and warning communities about the nearest evacuation centres.

A number of areas are still clearing up after the impact of Cyclones Judy and Kevin in March.