[Source: Fiji Meteorological Services]

Tropical Cyclone Yasa may take a similar track as Tropical Cyclone Harold which hit parts of Fiji this year.

The Nadi Meteorological Service forecasts that TC Yasa is still likely to make a loop from its current South Southwest track and head towards the Fiji Group.

The system remains slow moving between Fiji and Vanuatu, located about 510 kilometres West Northwest of Viwa as at 6 am.

Based on current forecasts, the clockwise loop is expected to occur by Wednesday when TC Yasa will take a Southeasterly track towards Fiji.

The Nadi Weather Office says Viti Levu, Kadavu and the Yasawa Group can expect gale and storm force winds from Thursday however, heavy rain will be experienced over the Fiji Group from Wednesday.

As it changes direction, the system is also expected to intensify into a Category 3 cyclone.

Strong winds are expected to peak on Friday when TC Yasa is closest to Fiji.

TC Harold in 2019 caused damage in parts of Viti Levu Kadavu, Vatulele and the Lau Group.

With TC Yasa forecast to take a similar track, Fijians are being advised to prepare now.