The Fiji Meteorological Service has issued a Heavy Rain Alert for the whole country, warning that unsettled weather conditions are expected to persist over the coming days.
A trough of low pressure is currently affecting the Fiji Group, bringing periods of rain, isolated thunderstorms, and heavy downpours to several areas.
Forecasters say the worst conditions are likely over the Yasawa and Mamanuca Groups, as well as the interior and western parts of Viti Levu — including Ra–Rakiraki, Tavua–Ba–Lautoka, Nadi, Sigatoka to Navua, and interior regions of Ba, Ra, Nadroga/Navosa, Serua and Namosi. Kadavu and nearby smaller islands are also expected to experience heavy rainfall.
For the rest of the country, cloudy periods with showers and afternoon or evening thunderstorms are expected, with conditions forecast to become wetter from tomorrow as rain becomes more widespread.
The weather office has warned of several potential impacts associated with the system.
These include flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas, surface flooding in urban centres with poor drainage, and disruptions at Irish crossings and along major roads.
Motorists are also being urged to exercise caution, with reduced visibility and slippery road conditions expected during heavy rain, increasing the risk of accidents.
Authorities are reminding the public that heavy rain can develop rapidly in localized areas.
Residents, particularly those in flood-prone locations, are being urged to remain alert and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and that of their families.
