A HEAVY rain warning has been issued to most parts of the Western Division, Bua, Macuata, Vatulele, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands after Tropical Cyclone Irene strengthened to a Category 2 storm.
A flash-flood alert has also been issued for low-lying areas.
According to the Fiji Meteorological Services, while TC Irene lies away from the group and posed no direct threat to Fiji, associated rainfall conditions would affect the country.
“Heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong and gusty winds and rough to very rough seas is expected for Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, Vatulele, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, western and northern Viti Levu, Bua Province, Macuata Province, Vatulele, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands.
Strong winds were anticipated from last night.
“Localised heavy falls may also lead to flash flooding of low-lying and flood-prone areas. “With already heavily saturated soil as a result of continuous heavy rain in the past week, the risk of landslides occurring remains.”
TC Irene is expected to weaken over the weekend.
