The Fiji Meteorological Service has issued a series of warnings in response to an active trough of low pressure moving towards the country from the west. This weather system is expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and a heightened risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and regions near major rivers.
Key warnings currently in effect include:
1. **Heavy Rain Warning**: This warning applies to the entire Fiji group, with ongoing intense rain anticipated.
2. **Flood Warning**: High risks of flooding have been identified for areas downstream from the Ba, Nasivi (Tavua), and Nakauvadra (Rakiraki) rivers.
3. **Flood Alert**: This alert is active for all major river downstream areas across Fiji.
4. **Flash Flood Warning**: A nationwide warning for low-lying and flood-prone regions.
5. **Strong Wind Warning**: The coastal areas in the western and northern regions of Viti Levu, Yasawa, Mamanuca, and various smaller islands are facing strong northwesterly winds, with average speeds of 38-47 km/h and gusts up to 64 km/h.
Significant rainfall has already been recorded in several areas, such as Nadarivatu with 107.5mm and Lautoka Mill with 88.5mm, contributing to the ongoing weather challenges.
The impacts of this weather event are severe, including reduced visibility for drivers, potential road damage, flooding, disruptions to essential services, and communities at risk of displacement in flood-prone areas. Additionally, the threat of landslides and rising river levels, particularly during high tides, is significant.
Mariners are also advised of the dangers at sea, as strong winds (20-30 knots) and gusts up to 35 knots will create rough conditions, making navigation increasingly hazardous.
The Fiji Meteorological Service urges all residents to stay updated through official communication channels and to take appropriate precautions, as the forecast indicates that heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding risks will persist over the following days.
For further updates, residents can visit the official meteorological website or follow their social media.
In the face of such challenging weather conditions, community resilience and preparedness will be key to minimizing the impacts and ensuring safety. As communities come together to support one another, there is hope that collective efforts can mitigate the effects of these weather warnings.
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