The Fiji Meteorological Service has upgraded its alert status, issuing a heavy rain warning for the entire Fiji group as an active trough of low pressure moves towards the country.
In its 10:30am bulletin, the weather office said the trough, currently just west of Fiji, is gradually moving eastward and is already bringing cloud and rain across the group.
Meteorologists warn that the unsettled weather is expected to continue affecting Fiji until later tomorrow.
“Associated cloud and rain is already affecting Fiji, and is expected to continue affecting the group until later tomorrow,” the bulletin stated.
Forecasters say occasional rain is expected to become frequent and heavy from later today, accompanied by squally thunderstorms.
Rain is forecast to gradually ease from western parts of the country by midday tomorrow.
The weather office has warned of flash flooding in flood-prone and low-lying communities, including informal settlements, businesses and Irish crossings.
Authorities say these conditions could lead to traffic disruptions and hazardous travel conditions.
Urban areas with poor drainage are also at risk of surface flooding as heavy downpours continue.
Motorists are being urged to exercise extra caution, with wet roads and reduced visibility expected during periods of intense rainfall.
Residents are advised to remain alert, monitor weather updates and take necessary precautions as the weather system moves across the country.
