The Central Division Emergency Operations Center has been activated in response to severe rainfall affecting various regions in the country. Minister for Rural, Maritime Development, and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, announced during a press conference that the Fiji Police Force is on standby for potential evacuations from flood-prone areas.
The public is encouraged to contact 917 for assistance with evacuations. Areas experiencing flash floods include parts of Sigatoka Town and Lawaqa Road, where intense rainfall has coincided with high tide, exacerbating flooding conditions.
Ditoka emphasized that teams in the Western Division are collaborating with the Sigatoka Town Council and the Fiji Police to manage movement within the town. He urged citizens to minimize travel during the heavy rain, highlighting the risks associated with severe weather.
To ensure safety, a precautionary evacuation took place for a household of ten from the Calia Settlement, who were temporarily housed at the LDS Church but have since returned home safely. Ditoka reiterated the importance of keeping children and family members indoors and avoiding attempts to cross flooded streams, rivers, or bridges.
Motorists are advised to exercise caution as traffic disruptions and possible road closures are expected. A flash flood alert is in effect for low-lying, flood-prone areas, including regions in Vanua Levu, Lami, Suva, Nausori, Tailevu, and Naitasiri. A heavy rain warning is also active for the Northern Division, while heavy rain alerts persist for the Central and Eastern Divisions, along with the Yasawa Group.
According to Ditoka, as a trough of low pressure moves over the Fiji group, it is responsible for the current weather patterns, which are expected to improve by later today and clear out by Thursday. The situation remains monitored closely by the National Emergency Operations Center and respective divisional emergency operations teams.
This proactive approach by the government and emergency services highlights their commitment to ensuring the safety of Fijians during adverse weather conditions. Community cooperation and adherence to safety measures can significantly reduce risks, and it’s encouraging to see such community support during difficult times.
Summary: Heavy rainfall has led to the activation of the Central Division Emergency Operations Center in Fiji, with the Fiji Police on standby for evacuations. Flash floods have been reported in areas such as Sigatoka. Citizens are urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. A heavy rain alert is in effect for several regions, with weather conditions expected to improve soon. Emergency services are actively monitoring the situation, emphasizing public safety.
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