[Source: Fiji Meteorological Service]

Tropical Cyclone Ana has a high chance of becoming a category two system.

Senior Forecaster Sakeasi Rabitu says as of 9am today, TC Ana was located at about 175km North-West of Viwa tracking towards the Fiji group. It is likely to approach from the Yasawa Group.

He maintains that the centre of the cyclone is expected to pass over the Yasawa and Mamanuca Group later today.

Rabitu adds the cyclone is moving at a very slow pace and is expected to make landfall in greater Rakiraki and Tavua areas in the early hours of tomorrow morning.

“At the moment we are looking at the environment surrounding Tropical Cyclone Ana. It is currently struggling, the winds are also picking up, there is a possibility that it can intensify to category 2.”

On its current projected path, Rabitu says the cyclone will pass over the greater Navua and Serua region at around 9am tomorrow.

TC Ana is expected to drift Southwards towards Kadavu later tomorrow before passing the group on Monday morning.

Rabitu says Fijians can expect damaging gale force winds of up to 85km/hr gusting to 120km/hr with heavy rain expected across the country.

Fijians have been urged to stay away from flooded drains, streams and rivers.