From low to tropical disturbance

An active trough of low pressure, which has been responsible for unsettled weather in the past few days, remains slow moving and continues to affect the Fiji Group. Meanwhile, the low pressure system to the west of Fiji has intensified and upgraded to a Tropical Disturbance (TD12F).

It was located about 18.3 degrees south latitude and 171.8 degrees east longitude or about 600km west of Nadi at 3pm today.

TD12F is expected to move southeast towards the Fiji Group and bring heavy rain and strong winds.

It is anticipated to further intensify into a Tropical Depression in the next 12 to 24 hours as it moves closer to Fiji and expected to track southwest of the group this weekend.

The chance of TD12F developing into a Tropical Cyclone over the next 72 hours is moderate to high. TD12F is expected to bring strong winds over the land areas of northern Vanua Levu, Yasawa and Mamanuca Group, Western and northern Viti Levu, Lomaiviti Group, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands. These areas could expect moderate to fresh north-easterly winds, turning northwesterly, becoming strong with average speeds of 40 to 50km/hr and gusting to 65km/hr from tonight.

Currently, the following heavy rain, flood and strong wind alerts and warnings remain in force:

A “Heavy Rain Warning” remains in force for the Fiji Group;

A “Flood Warning” remains in force for the low-lying areas and small streams from Vatukacevaceva to Rakiraki Town;

A “Flood Alert” is in force for low-lying areas, small streams and areas adjacent to major rivers for Vanua Levu, Taveuni, and Viti Levu, for low-lying areas and small streams from Nasivi to Tavua Town and for low lying areas and small streams from Dreketilailai to Qawa River;

A “Strong Wind Warning” remains in force for Fiji Waters. Members of the public are advised to remain alert and vigilant. Take warnings and advisories from relevant authorities seriously and remain prepared at all times.

Furthermore, all communities living in flood prone and low-lying areas are advised to take all necessary precautions and similarly for those living in landslide-prone areas as adverse weather conditions continue to affect the group throughout this Easter weekend.

The current situation is closely monitored and any alert and warning will be issued as and when significant changes are anticipated. The public are advised to remain updated with the latest weather information.