A strong wind warning remains in force across large parts of Fiji as a slow‑moving trough of low pressure keeps a persistent east to southeast flow over the group. The strongest winds and the roughest seas are expected through to midnight tomorrow, with frequent showers and isolated thunderstorms producing localised heavy falls in several districts.
The warning is in force for Southern Lau, Yasayasa Moala, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, and has been extended to the rest of Yasawa, the Lau and Lomaiviti groups, the southern and eastern half of Viti Levu (from the Sigatoka Coral Coast through Suva up to Rakiraki), southern Bua and Cakaudrove including Taveuni and nearby smaller islands. In these areas easterly to southeasterly winds are expected at 35 to 45 km/h, with gusts up to around 55 km/h at times, and seas ranging from rough to very rough. Elsewhere, moderate to fresh southeast winds will produce moderate to rough seas.
Showers and thunderstorms are most likely about the Greater Suva–Nausori–Tailevu corridor, Serua–Namosi–Naitasiri, Lomaiviti and Lau groups, Kadavu, and the eastern and southern parts of Vanua Levu (southern Bua and Cakaudrove including Taveuni). These areas may see occasional heavy falls; localised heavy rain could lead to flash flooding of low‑lying and flood‑prone locations. Elsewhere, expect cloudy periods with isolated afternoon or evening showers and a few thunderstorms.
Local forecasts reflect these conditions: Navua, Suva and Nausori should expect east to southeast winds 35–45 km/h with gusts to 55 km/h, occasional heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms (night and day temperatures around 23–29°C). Coastal and island centres from Yasawa and the Coral Coast to Nadi, Lautoka, Ba, Tavua and Rakiraki will see cloudy conditions with isolated or scattered showers and thunderstorms, highs near 31°C. Taveuni, Lau, Lomaiviti and Kadavu will also experience periods of heavier rain and thunderstorms with similar wind strengths and daytime highs around 29–30°C. Rotuma will have occasional showers and isolated thunderstorms with moderate southeasterlies and moderate to rough seas.
Given the strong winds, hazardous sea conditions and the potential for heavy, localized rain, small craft and coastal operations should exercise caution. Secure loose outdoor items where possible and avoid driving through flooded roads; low‑lying and flood‑prone areas remain at risk while the trough lingers. The outlook for Tuesday shows a continuation of occasional showers with isolated heavy falls and thunderstorms in many of the same areas.