Fiji will not be directly “hit” by Tropical Cyclone Vaianu, however, the country will experience extreme weather.
Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management acting permanent secretary Mitieli Cama made the statement while addressing the nation yesterday, confirming that authorities continue to closely monitor the system and its potential impacts.
“Our response teams are on the ground, and we remain on standby to assist affected communities as needed,” Mr Cama said.
“Tropical Cyclone Vaianu is now a Category 2 system and is currently forecasted by RSMC Nadi to strengthen into a Category 3 Severe Tropical Cyclone within the next 18 to 24 hours (today).”
Mr Cama stressed that although the system was not expected to make direct landfall in Fiji, its impact will still be felt across the country.
He said the cyclone’s slow movement significantly increases the risk of prolonged heavy rainfall, flash flooding and landslides across the country.
“Let me be clear, even without a direct hit, dangerous weather conditions are expected.
“These include heavy rainfall, strong winds, flash flooding, and rough seas.
“At this time, I also want to emphasise that the public must remain on high alert, as a heavy rain warning and flash flood alert are now in force for the whole of Fiji.”
According to the Fiji Meteorological Services, Tropical Cyclone Vaianu was expected to bring strong northeasterly wind speeds up to 45 kilometres per hour and gusts of up to 70 kilometres per hour with maritime communities in Yasawa, Mamanuca, Western Viti Levu and Kadavu expected to experience the worst of the rainy conditions.
The Fiji Met issued a gale warning for Yasawa, Mamanuca and Southwest Viti Levu waters, a gale alert for Kadavu and Vatu i Ra passage and a strong wind warning for the rest of Fiji waters.
