The Water Authority of Fiji says restoration works are continuing on key water infrastructure in Ba following damage caused by heavy rain and flooding during Tropical Cyclone Urmil.

More than 300 residents of the Bila community in Martintar, Nadi, are pleading for urgent government intervention following extensive road and drainage damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Urmil.

Sixteen evacuation centres are now active across the Western Division, sheltering 438 evacuees from 87 households as flooding continues to affect communities.

A severe thunderstorm warning is now in force for parts of Fiji, including northeastern Viti Levu and the eastern half of Vanua Levu.

Nadi’s flooding issues have seen no significant improvement, but the Nadi Town Council has confirmed that the long-awaited Nadi Flood Alleviation Project, announced almost five years ago, is progressing well and is expected to bring residents much-needed relief.

The National Disaster Risk Management Office is urging the public, particularly those living in flood-prone and low-lying areas, to remain alert and prepared as heavy rainfall, possible flooding, and strong winds continue to affect the country.

The Ministry of Fisheries’ Team Aqua North has successfully concluded a three-day training program for tilapia farmers in Namocemoce Village, Seaqaqa, aimed at strengthening aquaculture practices and improving farm productivity in the north.

Fiji is likely to experience heavy rain, flooding and strong winds over the next few days as Tropical Disturbance TD03F approaches the country.

The National Disaster Risk Management Office is urging Fijians to remain alert and take extra precautions as a flash flood alert remains in force for the Southern and Central Eastern Divisions from Navua, Suva, and Nausori to Tailevu North and Ovalau, as well as Kadavu and southern Vanua Levu.

The country has maintained a strong record of regional disaster response, says Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka.

Authorities in Labasa are closely monitoring the situation as continuous heavy rain has caused flooding in several low-lying and flood-prone areas.

The country is expected to experience above-average rainfall and warmer-than-normal temperatures over the coming months, the Fiji Meteorological Service warns.