Update: 10:24AM REFRAIN from unnecessary travel and be on the lookout for flash flooding in the Northern and Western Divisions.

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport says Tropical  Disturbance (TD04F) has shown signs of intensification over the last 24 hours and has a moderate to high chance of developing into a tropical cyclone in the next 48 to 72 hours.

The system remains slow moving and was located near 14.5 South latitude and 175.3 East longitude or about 190km Southwest of Rotuma and about 430km North-Northwest of Nadi at 1pm yesterday.

The ministry says the major concern for the next few days is heavy rain and strong winds associated with the system.

A heavy rain warning is in force for the whole of Fiji, a strong wind warning remains in force for land and sea areas of Fiji.

The ministry says if TD04F develops into a tropical cyclone, it is most likely to be a CAT 1 storm or marginal CAT 2 strength over Fiji Waters.

Expect moderate to fresh Northeast to Southeast winds, gradually turning northerly and becoming strong and gusty with average speeds of 45km/hr and momentary gusts up to 60km/hr from later tomorrow.

Mariners should anticipate East to Southeast winds with average speeds of 20 to 30 knots and gusting up to 35 knots and winds turning northerly from later tomorrow.

Seas will become very rough and visibility will be poor in areas of heavy rain and thunderstorms.

The ministry has advised all communities to remain prepared at all times and take necessary precautions well ahead of start of heavy rain and strong wind.

For more details and the latest on weather, please contact the Tropical Cyclone Warning Centre on6736006, 9905376 or visit the Fiji Meteorological Service?s website, www.met.gov.fj