Category 3 storm

Ula is now a Category Three cyclone and is easing as it moves in a south easterly direction from its position south of the Vanuatu group.

Ula reached Category Four level as it veered towards Vanuatu's south at the weekend raising fears for vulnerable islands in Tafea Province which are still recovering from the devastation of last year's Cyclone Pam.

The hurricane's maximum sustained winds Friday had increased to near 115 mph (185 kph). The U.S. National Hurricane Center says the hurricane is not expected to intensify, and a weakening trend is forecast to begin later Friday.

The hurricane is centered about 900 miles (1448 kilometers) east of the Leeward Islands.

Hurricane Danny doesn't currently pose a threat to land but the hurricane center says those in the Leeward Islands should monitor its progress.