The National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO) has warned that El Niño is already affecting communities across Fiji, with dry conditions expected to continue and households urged to prepare for possible water shortages.
In a public notice, the NDRMO called on Fijians to begin conserving and storing water before their supplies run out.
“Do not wait until your water source runs dry. Start preparing and conserving water now,” the NDRMO warned.
The office said households relying on rainwater tanks, boreholes, wells and other local water sources should begin rationing their supplies early.
Residents have also been advised to store water safely while supplies remain available.
Farmers have been urged to closely monitor their crops, livestock and available water resources and seek advice before conditions worsen.
The NDRMO said communities dependent on water carting should also ration their supplies and prioritise essential household needs.
It urged residents to report drying or failed water sources as early as possible to local authorities or their Divisional Emergency Operations Centre.
The office confirmed that government agencies were continuing to assist affected communities through water carting and other support measures.
However, it cautioned that delivering assistance to some remote and maritime communities could take time.
The warning comes as prolonged dry conditions place increasing pressure on water availability in communities dependent on rainfall and local water sources.
The NDRMO stressed that early preparation and responsible water use were essential to reducing the impact of shortages.
“Every drop counts. Prepare today. Protect tomorrow,” the notice stated.
