Forecasters say Tropical Disturbance TD09F is expected to track to the southwest of Fiji from Saturday through to Sunday, with no direct impact anticipated at this stage — but its influence on local weather conditions is expected to be significant.
In a statement issued this afternoon, the Fiji Meteorological Service said the shallow system was located close to Vanuatu, and was forecast to intensify further.
“Tropical Disturbance TD09F is expected to intensify into a tropical depression later this evening and is likely to develop into a tropical cyclone tomorrow,” the weather office said.
While the system is forecast to remain offshore, forecasters warned that its proximity would still affect Fiji’s weather, particularly from later Saturday.
“Although a direct impact on Fiji is not expected, the system will likely bring strong north-westerly winds and occasional heavy rain with thunderstorms,” the Fiji Met said.
Average winds of around 40 kilometres per hour are forecast, with gusts of up to 60 kilometres per hour, especially in exposed and coastal areas.
As the system moves south of Fiji on Monday, an associated trough of low pressure is expected to linger southwest of the group, maintaining moist north-westerly winds across the country.
In response to the expected conditions, the Fiji Meteorological Service has issued a heavy rain alert for the Western Division and Kadavu, effective from later Saturday.
A strong wind alert is also in force for the same areas.
Forecasters warned that possible impacts include flash flooding and river flooding, strong winds breaking tree branches, and damage to older or lightly built corrugated iron or timber houses and exposed structures.
The weather office said the period of greatest concern is from later Saturday through to Tuesday and is urging the public to remain vigilant, take precautionary measures, and stay updated with official forecasts and warning
