The Government will announce its El Niño response plan packages tomorrow as prolonged dry conditions continue to affect farmers, water supplies and communities across Fiji.
Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry Tomasi Tunabuna is scheduled to make the announcement at 2pm at the ministry’s headquarters conference room in Raiwaqa.
The announcement comes amid growing concerns over the impact of El Niño, particularly on agricultural production and water availability in the Western and Northern divisions.
The Fiji Meteorological and Hydrological Services’ October 2026 Climate Summary revealed that 26 of the country’s 27 reporting weather stations recorded well below normal rainfall.
Tavua recorded no rainfall throughout October, while Nadi Airport received just 0.3 millimetres, Yasawa-i-Rara 0.4mm and Viwa 0.6mm.
Four stations — Nadi Airport, Yasawa-i-Rara, Viwa and Rotuma — recorded their lowest October rainfall totals on record.
The prolonged dry spell has already affected vegetable and sugarcane farming, with declining soil moisture and water availability causing crop stress and difficulties in land preparation.
Some farmers have reported crops withering before harvest, resulting in reduced income.
The dry conditions have also increased the risk of bush and plantation fires, particularly in the Western Division.
Meanwhile, the Water Authority of Fiji has warned of possible water supply disruptions and rationing as declining inflows and increased evaporation place pressure on Vaturu Dam, which supplies water to parts of Nadi and Lautoka.
Rural and maritime communities have also experienced worsening water shortages, prompting emergency water deliveries to affected areas.
The Fiji Meteorological Service has warned that El Niño conditions could persist into early 2027, raising concerns about prolonged pressure on agricultural production and water resources.
