Australians holidaying in Fiji have been told to "bunker down" as a category 5 cyclone bears down on the South Pacific nation. 
Local media is reporting an elderly man has died on Koro island as tropical cyclone Winston, described as one of the most powerful storms in recorded history, lashes the mainland with wind gusts of up to 325 km/h.
Flights in and out of Fiji were cancelled yesterday.
The cyclone made landfall on Fiji's largest island - home to the capital Suva - after the government declared a state of emergency and imposed a curfew. Fiji's Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama issued a statement on his government's Facebook page warning the nation was facing a grievous ordeal. "Let us all pray for our nation," he said.
About 1200 Australians are registered with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as being in Fiji, although the actual number is thought to be much higher.
Jane Irvine, 22, is on holiday in Warrick, on Fiji's south-west coast. The Monash University pharmaceutical student, from Macleod in Melbourne, said local radio reports were urging people to stay inside.
"Anything that could blow away is tied down," she said, adding stores had been "crazy busy" as people bought supplies. Tourists have been evacuated off some resort islands.
Virgin Airways will review flights scheduled tomorrow. Fiji Airways also cancelled flights.
Australians who are unable to reach their friends or family in Fiji are urged to contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135.