A strong wind warning remains in force for large parts of Fiji, with the Fiji Meteorological Service also maintaining a heavy rain alert as a slow-moving weather system continues to affect the country.
The warning covers the Southern Lau Group, Yasayasa Moala, Kadavu and nearby islands, Yasawa, Lau and Lomaiviti groups, as well as the southern and eastern half of Viti Levu from Sigatoka through Suva to Rakiraki, including Southern Bua and Cakaudrove provinces, Taveuni and surrounding islands.
According to the latest update, a trough of low pressure with associated cloud, showers and rain remains slow moving over Fiji and is expected to persist until later tomorrow.
“A trough of low pressure with associated clouds, showers and rain remains slow moving over Fiji and is expected to affect the group till later tomorrow,” the weather office said.
For affected areas, east to southeast winds of 35 to 45km/h, with gusts reaching up to 55km/h, are expected, accompanied by rough to very rough seas.
Elsewhere, moderate to fresh southeast winds and moderate to rough seas are forecast.
Meanwhile, a heavy rain alert remains in force for the interior, southern and eastern parts of Viti Levu, including Rakiraki, Korovou, Naitasiri, Nausori, Suva, Navua and the Pacific Harbour to Sigatoka corridor, as well as Cakaudrove, southern Bua, Taveuni, Lomaiviti and Kadavu.
Forecast conditions include occasional rain, isolated thunderstorms and heavy downpours, which may lead to flash flooding in low-lying areas.
The Lau Group can expect occasional showers, with isolated afternoon or evening thunderstorms and heavy falls possible.
Authorities are urging the public, particularly mariners and those in exposed coastal areas, to exercise caution as conditions remain unsettled.
