Tropical Disturbance 01F has strengthened into Tropical Depression 01F, with forecasters expecting the system to develop into a Category 1 tropical cyclone within the next 12 to 18 hours.

The system was moving southwards and was forecast to pass close to Suwarrow before heading towards the southern Cook Islands.

A Tropical Cyclone Alert remains in place for Palmerston, Aitutaki and nearby islands, as the threat of strong winds increases across the region.

Damaging gale-force winds could affect Suwarrow later tonight, while parts of the southern Cook Islands may experience gale-force conditions over the weekend.

Fiji Meteorological Service, acting as the Regional Specialized Meteorological Centre, continues to monitor the system and provide updates for the region.

Residents and communities in potentially affected areas are urged to follow official weather bulletins and comply with guidance from local authorities.