Fiji Met watching approaching bad weather

An active trough of low pressure lies to the North of Fiji as of yesterday. Chances are possible that it would be upgraded to a category one cyclone by this weekend, said Fiji Meteorological Service director Ravind Singh yesterday.

“A low is expected to develop within this trough, slightly deepen and drag the active trough and associated rain over the group tomorrow,” Mr Singh said. “This active trough of low pressure system has already brought strong winds, 20 to 25 knots over Fiji waters with rough seas; the strong winds are expected to spread over the land areas from Friday with average wind speeds of 50kilometres per hour and gusts up to 80 kilometres per hour as this forecasted low deepens.” Mr Singh said the wind was expected to increase further as the low deepened and it had a very low chance to develop into a tropical cyclone over Fiji waters tomorrow.

“Rain is already being experienced over parts of Fiji today, mainly Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands as well as Lau and Lomaiviti group,” Mr Singh said. “Rain is expected become frequent and heavy with isolated thunderstorm and to spread to the whole group tomorrow; flooding is expected over low lying areas and we will continue to monitor the situation and provide latest updates.” Mr Singh had advised the general public that the nation was still in the tropical cyclone and wet season. “High variability in weather can be expected and severe weather cannot be ruled out at this time of the year; therefore, all communities are advised to remain alert and prepared at all times; furthermore, take forecast warnings and advisories and seriously and make informed decisions,” he said. Edited by Rusiate Mataika