The Fiji Meteorological Service says Tropical Disturbance TD07F is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and strong winds across the country as it moves southeast between Vanuatu and Fiji.
At 7am today, TD07F was located about 820 kilometres north-northwest of Nadi and was moving southeast at around 15 kilometres per hour.
Forecasters say the system may intensify into a tropical depression later today, but it has a low chance of developing into a tropical cyclone due to unfavourable environmental conditions.
The Fiji Meteorological Service said the centre of the system is expected to remain west of Fiji.
However, rainbands associated with TD07F are already affecting parts of the country.
“These rainbands are currently located west of the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups and are expected to move east, bringing heavy rain and fresh to strong north-northwesterly winds,” the Service said.
A heavy rain warning is now in force for the whole of Fiji.
In addition, a strong wind warning for land areas has been issued for the Yasawa and Mamanuca Group, western Viti Levu, northern Vanua Levu and Kadavu.
Strong Wind Warnings are also in effect for marine areas, including Yasawa and Mamanuca waters, southwest Viti Levu waters, northern Vanua Levu waters, Kadavu waters and the Vatu-i-Ra Passage.
The Fiji Meteorological Service is urging the public, especially those in low-lying and flood-prone areas, to remain alert and take necessary precautions.
