A heavy rain warning remains in force for the entire Fiji group as Severe Tropical Cyclone Vaianu intensifies to a Category 3 system.
The Fiji Meteorological Service, in its latest special weather bulletin issued from Nadi tonight, said the cyclone was located about 460 kilometres west of Yasawa-i-Rara and 480 kilometres west-northwest of Nadi at 6pm.
The system is currently moving southeast at around 8km/h and is expected to lie about 320 kilometres west of Nadi or 330 kilometres west-southwest of Yasawa-i-Rara by 6pm tomorrow.
Forecasters say occasional to periods of rain, heavy at times, along with thunderstorms are expected across the country, with forecast confidence rated moderate to high.
Authorities have warned that intense rainfall could trigger flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas, including informal settlements, as well as Irish crossings, which may lead to traffic disruptions.
Surface flooding is also expected in urban areas with poor drainage, while wet roads and reduced visibility during heavy downpours may increase the risk of accidents.
Meanwhile, Navua recorded 92 millimetres of rainfall in the past 24 hours.
The Fiji Meteorological Service is urging the public to remain alert and take necessary precautions as adverse weather conditions continue.
