Fiji is expected to remain under ENSO-neutral conditions through to June, with a possible shift to El Niño later in the year, according to the latest Fiji Ocean Outlook released by the Fiji Meteorological Service.
The outlook indicates above-normal sea surface temperatures in waters around the Northern Division, Koro, northern Lau Group and Rotuma, while the rest of the country is likely to experience near-normal conditions between May and July.
The South Pacific Convergence Zone (SPCZ) is also expected to shift south of its usual position, remaining within Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone during the same period.
Fiji Met has issued a coral bleaching “Watch” alert for waters north of Vanua Levu, including Rotuma, while the rest of Fiji’s waters remain under “No Stress” conditions.
Sea levels are forecast to be below normal across the Western and Central Divisions, much of the Eastern Division, and the south-west coast of Bua. However, Rotuma is expected to experience above-normal sea levels, with near-normal levels elsewhere.
Authorities say the outlook provides important guidance for marine, fisheries and climate-sensitive sectors as conditions evolve in the coming months.
