A heavy rain warning remains in force for the entire Fiji group as an active trough of low pressure continues to move eastwards across the country, bringing widespread rain, strong winds and the threat of flash flooding.
The Fiji Meteorological Service, in its 5:30am bulletin today, said the weather system is expected to continue affecting the country until later tonight.
A strong wind warning also remains in force for all land areas of Fiji, while a coastal inundation alert remains active for southern low-lying coastal areas of Yasawa, Mamanuca, Viti Levu from Natadola through the Coral Coast to Navua, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, Moala and the Southern Lau Group.
Meteorologists warned that occasional rain with isolated heavy falls and thunderstorms is expected over most places before becoming more widespread and intense later today.
“Rain is expected to become frequent and heavy with squally thunderstorms from later today,” the bulletin stated.
The weather office warned that localised heavy falls could trigger flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Residents are being urged to remain alert and avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges and waterways.
Strong east to northeasterly winds of between 40 and 55 kilometres per hour, with gusts reaching up to 65km/hr, are also forecast across the country.
The winds are expected to gradually shift to a northerly direction later today.
The latest warning comes as schools nationwide have been closed and work-from-home arrangements activated for public servants amid deteriorating weather conditions.
Authorities continue to urge the public to monitor official weather updates and take necessary precautions as the adverse conditions persist.
