Severe Tropical Cyclone Oli was first identified by the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS) early on 29 January.

[2] The following day, the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) began monitoring the disturbance as an area of mid-level convection.

Satellite imagery depicted a developing low-level circulation center within the system as it moved within a region of moderate wind shear.

[3] Later on 30 January, convective banding features developed along the periphery of the system as it moved eastward in response to a subtropical ridge to the north.

Early the next day, RSMC Nadi cancelled the alert for Pukapuka and Nassau, whilst placing Suwarrow island under a tropical cyclone warning.

Prior to Oli's arrival, roughly 3,400 people were evacuated from low-lying, coastal areas in Tahiti and the surrounding islands.

As the storm bypassed Tahiti and nearby islands on 4 and 5 February, the local government declared a red alert as winds up to 195 km/h (120 mph) impacted the region.

[11] Minor damages were reported within the Cook Islands after they were affected by heavy rain, high seas and strong winds.