Tropical Cyclone Vaianu is currently located west of the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, remaining offshore.
According to the latest track analysis, the system strengthened to Category 3 around 2am today as it moved closer to Fiji waters west of the Yasawa group.
The cyclone will make its closest approach to Fiji during daytime today, passing west of the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups without making landfall.
Despite remaining offshore, Vaianu is expected to bring gale to damaging winds across parts of the country, particularly affecting the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, western Viti Levu and Kadavu waters.
Associated rainbands continue to spread across the Fiji group, with heavy rain expected to persist.
Authorities have warned that the risk of flooding remains high, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
By 12pm today, the cyclone is forecast to remain a Category 3 system as it tracks south-southeast away from Fiji.
Forecasters are continuing to monitor the system as adverse weather conditions impact the country.
