Tropical Cyclone Uesi is expected to intensify as it heads towards New Caledonia tonight.

Photo: Fiji Met Service

Steven Meke of the Fiji Meteorological Service said damaging gale winds were expected to hit the western half of the island.

Heavy rainfall was also forecast for the whole of New Caledonia.

"At the moment, where it's located to the east, there's also a convergence zone that is associated with Uesi that is currently affecting Vanuatu.

"So, Vanuatu is experiencing some heavy rainfall with some gusty winds but not damaging ones. For Uesi, I think the impact will be greatly affected by New Caledonia."

Mr Meke said Uesi was currently a category two cyclone with winds of up 95 km/hr.