Very dry conditions are expected across large parts of Fiji in the coming weeks and months as El Niño conditions continue, according to the Fiji Meteorological Service’s Early Action Rainfall Watch.
The latest outlook indicates a high chance of very dry conditions across several parts of the country between August 15 and 28.
Areas facing a high chance of very dry conditions include the Northern Division, Yasawa Group, Viwa, the Nausori to Navua corridor, eastern interior of Viti Levu, northern Kadavu, Moala, Totoya, the Lau Group and Rotuma.
The rest of the Fiji Group has a medium chance of experiencing very dry conditions during the same period.
The outlook for August indicates an even greater risk for some areas.
Rotuma faces a very high chance of very dry conditions, while parts of the southern Lau Group have a high chance.
The Western, Central and Northern divisions, Lomaiviti Group, Moala Group and northern Lau Group have a medium chance of very dry conditions during August.
The outlook becomes more widespread over the August to October period.
The Fiji Meteorological Service says there is a very high chance of very dry conditions for the southern Yasawa Group, Viwa, Mamanuca Group, the Ba to Nadi coastal area, Udu Point, Rabi, Qamea, Gau, Nairai, the Moala Group, Lau Group and Rotuma.
The remainder of Fiji faces a high chance of very dry conditions during the three-month period.
The outlook comes as El Niño is currently underway.
The Early Action Rainfall Watch is designed to provide the Fiji National Disaster Risk Management Office and other disaster management agencies with information on recent rainfall patterns and expected rainfall conditions for the coming months.
The outlook provides authorities with advance information to support preparedness and early action as dry conditions develop across the country.
