The Fiji Meteorological Service has cancelled the heavy rain warning that was in force for the entire Fiji group, but cautioned that significant flood and wind hazards remain as a slow‑moving trough of low pressure continues to affect the islands.
Although the heavy rain warning has been lifted, a flood warning remains for low‑lying areas near the Tuva River in Nadroga and the Nawaka and Nadi rivers on western Viti Levu. A flash flood warning is still current for Viti Levu, while a flash flood alert continues to apply across the rest of the country, reflecting ongoing risk from intense downpours and rapid rises in local waterways.
Strong wind warnings are also active for Vatulele, Beqa, southern Lau, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands. The forecaster says northwesterly winds are expected to reach up to 55 km/h with gusts up to 80 km/h, creating hazardous conditions for small craft and exposed coastal communities. Seas are forecast to remain rough in affected areas until winds moderate.
The weather office attributed the persistent unsettled conditions to a slow‑moving trough of low pressure that is producing periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms. While the cancellation of the heavy rain warning signals an easing of the most severe widespread rainfall threat, the trough’s lingering influence means localized heavy falls and flash flooding remain possible, especially in low‑lying and flood‑prone districts.
Forecasters expect conditions to improve gradually, with rain easing to showers from the west later tonight and across the remainder of the country by tomorrow. Winds and seas are also expected to moderate as the trough weakens or shifts, reducing the intensity of hazards over the coming 24 to 48 hours.
Authorities reiterated that communities in riverside and low‑lying areas should remain alert to flood advisories and prepared to respond if river levels rise or flash flooding occurs. The Meteorological Service will continue to monitor the system closely and issue further updates as conditions evolve.
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