Fijians are being cautioned to remain vigilant as Tropical Depression 09F has been upgraded to Tropical Cyclone Rae. The cyclone’s current location is near Udu Point, Vanua Levu, and moving south toward Fiji. According to the Fiji Meteorological Service Director Misaele Funaki, there is potential for the cyclone to strengthen further into a Category 1 cyclone.
Residents in the Eastern Division, particularly in Lau, Lomaiviti, and Vanua Levu, are advised to prepare for severe weather conditions. The public has been instructed to steer clear of flood-prone areas, avoid crossing flooded roads or rivers, and to exercise caution while traveling. The National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO) encourages households to secure properties, gather emergency supplies, and stay indoors as a precaution. Mariners have also been warned about hazardous sea conditions and are advised to refrain from going out to sea.
In light of the approaching cyclone, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro, in coordination with the NDRMO, announced the closure of all schools in Lau, Lomaiviti, and Vanua Levu for safety reasons, while schools in other regions will remain open.
Active weather alerts have been issued, including:
– Gale warnings for eastern Vanua Levu, Cikobia, Naqele Levu, Taveuni, Lau, and Lomaiviti.
– Strong wind warnings for the rest of Vanua Levu, northeastern Viti Levu, and surrounding islands.
– Heavy rain warnings for the Northern Division, Lau, Lomaiviti, and now extended to all of Fiji.
With winds expected to escalate, the community’s spirit of preparing collectively can provide strength in facing these challenges. Similar to past weather events where solidarity has proven effective, residents are reminded to remain informed, supportive, and resilient, which can significantly mitigate the impacts of this impending cyclone.
Leave a comment