[Photo: FILE]

The Government is stepping up monitoring and public awareness efforts as Fiji prepares for the possible development of El Niño conditions.

The Fiji Meteorological Service has activated an El Niño Watch, prompting authorities to begin early preparedness measures and ensure communities receive timely information as the situation develops.

Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael, says the focus at this stage is on closely monitoring conditions and keeping the public informed.

“The Fiji Meteorological Service has activated El Niño Watch and alerted citizens through social media. As the situation develops, further preparatory measures will be taken. The objective is to ensure early and accurate warnings reach every community.”

Dr Michael says the National Disaster Management Office will provide further details on Fiji’s El Niño Preparedness Plan when necessary.

He is urging households to rely on official information from Government agencies, radio broadcasts, and verified social media platforms as forecasts become clearer.

El Niño is a naturally occurring climate pattern that can influence weather conditions across the Pacific, often bringing below-average rainfall and increasing the risk of prolonged dry periods.

Dr Michael says while El Niño can contribute to drought conditions, its impacts depend on other climate factors, including the ongoing effects of climate change.

“While El Niño can increase the risk of prolonged dry conditions and potential drought, it is important to remember that it interacts with various other climate factors and is developing against the background of climate change.”

He says Fiji continues to strengthen its resilience through climate-proof infrastructure, improved water security, relocation of vulnerable communities, and stronger disaster management systems.

Dr Michael adds that climate science indicates stronger El Niño events could become more frequent as global temperatures continue to rise.

Government agencies, including the Fiji Meteorological Service and the National Disaster Management Office, will continue monitoring developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.