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TD03F tracking Southeast and expected to pass just East of Fiji

January 1, 2019 4:18 pm

Figure 1: Weather Map at 10am today on 01 January 2019.

Tropical Depression 03F may intensify further into a category 1 tropical cyclone in the next 6 to 9 hours.

The Fiji Meteorological Services says TD03F is moving southeast at about 25km/hr, however, the chances of it developing into a Tropical Cyclone is now low to moderate.

TD03F was located about 150km north-northwest of Udu Point and about 190km north-northeast of Labasa at 10am today.

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On the projected path, TD03F is expected to be located about 190km north-northeast of Lakeba or about 201km east-northeast of Udu Point at 10pm today and about 260km east of Lakeba at 10am tomorrow.

For Cikobia, eastern Vanua Levu from Lagalaga, Udu Point, Saqani, Natewa to Karoko, Rabi, Taveuni, Qamea, Laucala Islands and northern Lau Group, expect strong to damaging gale force with speeds of 55 to 65km/hr and momentary gusts to 90km/hr.

Figure 2: Tropical Disturbance Threat Track Map, TD03F at 8:39am on 01 January, 2019

Expect periods of rain, heavy at times and few thunderstorms over Taveuni and nearby smaller islands and northern Lau Group.

Elsewhere, expect occasional showers and possible isolated heavy falls. Flooding including sea flooding of low lying areas is likely.

For the rest of Fiji, expect moderate to fresh southeast winds, gusty at times.

Fine weather is expected apart from isolated brief showers.

The following warnings remain in force:

A gale warning remains in force for Cikobia, eastern Vanua Levu from Lagalaga, Udu Point, Saqani, Natewa to Karoko, Rabi, Taveuni, Qamea, Laucala Islands and Northern Lau Group.

A strong wind warning remains in force for Vanua Levu, Lomaiviti Group, Northern Viti Levu, Yasawa Group and Southern Lau Group.

Figure 3: Tropical Disturbance Forecast Track Map, TD03F issued at 8.34am today on 01
January 2019

A heavy rain warning remains in force for Taveuni and nearby smaller islands and northern Lau Group.

The flood alert previously in force for low lying areas and areas adjacent to major rivers of northern Vanua Levu has now been cancelled.

For northern Vanua Levu Waters, Vatu-i-Ra Passage, Koro Sea and Lau Waters, mariners can expect east to southeast winds 30 to 35 knots, gusting to 45 knots with very rough to high seas.

Figure 4: Satellite image 12pm today on 01 January 2019.

For the rest of Fiji Waters, expect east to southeast winds 20 to 30 knots with rough to very rough seas.

Chances of flash flooding remain in low-lying and flood prone areas, especially in areas of isolated heavy falls.

Therefore, all communities living in low-lying and flood prone areas are requested to remain alert.

The public is to keep away from flooded drains, streams and rivers whilst motorists are requested to take extreme care when driving in adverse weather conditions.

The system is closely being monitored and any alert and warning will be issued as and when necessary.