Tropical Low Develops To The West of Fiji
Atrough of low pressure with associated cloud and rain remains slow moving over Fiji and is expected to continue affecting the Group into the Easter weekend.
The trough is expected to become active and a tropical low has developed along the trough to the west of Fiji.
The low is likely to intensify into a disturbance and deepen into a tropical depression within the vicinity of the Fiji Group.
The possibility of the system developing into a tropical cyclone remains low to moderate for the next 3 days.
As the tropical low develops and intensifies, winds will gradually turn northerly, become stronger and gusty from Friday or Saturday.
If the system draws closer to Fiji, even damaging gales for winds could be expected over the Western Division, Kadavu and nearby islands.
Rain is expected to become frequent and heavy as we progress into the weekend.
Therefore, the chances of flash flooding and flooding of low-lying areas and possibility of river flooding will be high through the Easter weekend.
Currently, following alerts and warnings remain in force:
1. A “Heavy Rain Warning” remains in force for Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands, Northern Lau Group, Northern Viti Levu, Yasawa and Mamanuca Group and now in force for interior and eastern Viti Levu;
2. A “Heavy Rain Alert” remains in force for the rest of Fiji; and
3. A “Strong Wind Warning” remains in force for the Southwest Viti Levu Waters, Kadavu and Vatu-i-Ra passages, Southern Koro Sea and Southern Lau waters.
All communities living in flood prone and low-lying areas are requested to take precaution and remain vigilant through this weekend.
The current situation is closely monitored and any alert and warning will be issued as and when necessary. The public is advised to remain updated with the latest weather information and take alerts and warnings seriously.