A heavy rain warning is now in force for the entire Fiji Group, while a flash flood warning has also been issued for all low-lying and flood-prone areas and small streams.
The Fiji Meteorological Service said Tropical Depression TD03F would bring heavy rain and strong winds today as it upgrades to a tropical depression.
It remains slow moving to the northeast of Vanuatu and is forecast to enter Fiji waters tomorrow.
The Met Office said the system’s associated trough of low pressure continues to affect the country, bringing overcast conditions and persistent rainfall, with soils already saturated.
TD03F is expected to track eastwards through Fiji from Tuesday and exit via the Lau Group by late Wednesday.
Strong northerly winds of up to 50km/h with gusts reaching 70km/h are forecast for northern Vanua Levu, the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, northern Lau and Lomaiviti.
Mariners are warned of 15 to 20-knot winds, rough seas and poor visibility, increasing to 30 knots with gusts up to 40 knots from Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is calling on all road users to be vigilant and take necessary precautions while travelling, as a heavy rain and flash flood warnings are now in place.
LTA chief executive officer Irimaia Rokosawa says the prevailing heavy rain demands a high level of responsibility and caution from every road user, as adverse weather significantly increase the risk of road accidents.
“Motorists are advised to adjust their driving behaviour to suit the conditions by reducing speed, increasing following distances, and avoiding sudden braking or sharp turns that can lead to loss of control on wet and slippery roads,” Mr Rokosawa said.
“Drivers should ensure that their headlights are switched on during heavy rain and that windscreen wipers, tyres, brakes, and lights are in good working condition before commencing any journey,”
He stressed that drivers must remain alert at all times, particularly when travelling through areas prone to flooding, landslips, or falling debris.
“Never attempt to drive through flooded roads, as water depth can be difficult to judge and fast-flowing water can easily sweep vehicles off the road.
“If visibility becomes poor or conditions worsen, motorists are urged to slow down or safely pull over and wait until it is safe to continue.
“Reduced visibility, waterlogged surfaces and the possibility of flash flooding mean that even familiar routes can quickly become dangerous,” he said.
