Major flooding has been reported in several parts of the country, with Rakiraki among the worst affected following heavy rainfall since early this morning.
Police have closed Rakiraki Town, with access into the area stopped after floodwaters inundated roads and surrounding communities.
Authorities say the Naqoro Flats area is currently under water, while several parts of the town remain flooded as rain continues.
The flooding comes as a Flash Flood Warning remains in force for the whole of Viti Levu, while a Flash Flood Alert continues for the entire Vanua Levu, amid unsettled weather conditions across the Fiji group.
According to the Fiji Meteorological Service, Tropical Cyclone URMIL, currently a Category 2 system, lies to the west-southwest of Kadavu and is tracking southeastwards. Active rain bands associated with the system, along with strong northwesterly winds, are continuing to affect much of the country.
Weather officials have warned that these conditions pose a high risk of flash flooding and possible riverine flooding, particularly in flood-prone and low-lying areas.
