The heavy rain and strong winds late yesterday evening was a result of a trough of low pressure that was previously affecting the northern and eastern parts of Fiji.

The Fiji Met Service says it had drifted southwards and affected most parts of the country yesterday evening.

Meanwhile, another trough of low pressure with an embedded low pressure system over Vanuatu is anticipated to move south-eastwards and pass southwest of the Group tomorrow.

Associated cloud, rain and strong winds is expected to affect the country until Sunday.

A “Strong Wind Warning” remains in force for land areas of Yasawa and Mamanuca Group, western, southern and eastern parts of Viti Levu, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands and southern Lau and Lomaiviti groups.

With the trough over Fiji, strong winds passed over the Group last night due to a tight pressure gradient created by the approaching low pressure from west of the country.

Expect strong south to south-easterly winds with average speeds of 40km/hr and gusts to 55km/hr over the Yasawa Group, southern and eastern parts of Viti Levu and nearby smaller islands, Kadavu and Lomaiviti Group and Southern Lau Group.

Occasional rain, heavy at times and possible thunderstorms is expected over Yasawa and Mamanuca Group, Viti Levu, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, Lomaiviti and Southern Lau groups tomorrow.

Fresh to strong east to southeast winds, gusty at times is anticipated.

For the rest of the country, expect occasional rain and likely thunderstorms.
Isolated heavy falls and moderate to fresh east to southeast winds, gusty at times is also anticipated.

The weather is expected to improve from Sunday.

The Fiji Met Service says the strong winds can break tree branches and cause unsecured objects to blow around.

Motorists are urged to drive with caution during this wet weather and windy conditions currently being experienced.

The system has the potential to produce more than 50mm of rainfall in 24 hours and can cause flash flooding in those areas where there is occurrence of persistent localized heavy rainfall.

Therefore, all communities living in low lying and flood prone areas are advised to stay alert and take precautions when and if necessary.

Mariners are advised that a “Strong Wind Warning” remains in force for Southwest Viti Levu Waters, Southern Lau Waters, Koro Sea, Kadavu and Vatu-i-Ra passages.

Expect south to southeast winds 20 to 25 knots with rough seas and moderate southerly swells.

Poor visibility in areas of heavy rain and thunderstorms.

For the rest of Fiji Waters, expect northeast to southeast winds 15 to 20 knots with moderate to rough seas and moderate southerly swells.

Poor visibility in areas of heavy rain and thunderstorms.