The Agriculture Ministry is advising all farmers to take necessary precautions to reduce risk to life and their property as a heavy rain warning remains in force for the whole of the Fiji group.

The weather forecast by the Fiji Meteorological Service says localised heavy rain can cause flash flooding in low lying areas.

Farmers are advised to begin securing their property, stock and keep their animals, machinery and farm implements away from flood-prone areas and secure their livestock sheds.

It’s also advisable for farmers to monitor crops which are on flood prone areas to avoid losses during flooding.

Farmers should move planting materials to higher grounds so they can be used after the floodwaters have receded and be wary of culverts and other waterways created by floods, keeping family members and animals away from them.

Farmers should also pay close attention to all weather forecasts, warnings and advisories issued by the Fiji Meteorological Services.