A “Heavy Rain Alert” is now in force for Vanua Levu, eastern parts of Viti
Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands, Lau and Lomaititi Group.
The Fiji Meteorology Services says the alert maybe upgraded to warning as the situation may warrant in next 12 to 24 hours.
A trough of low-pressure with associated cloud and rain lies slow moving over the eastern parts of the group and expected to gradually move westwards and lie west of Fiji in the weekend.
Therefore, wet conditions can be anticipated over most places with isolated heavy rainfall and localised heavy rainfall (heavy rainfall in short duration) may lead to flash flooding and flooding of low-lying areas.
As the trough is over the eastern parts of the group, showers have increased to rain and heavy rain bands are developing and passing through the group.
This is anticipated to be intensifying as the trough migrates westwards and northerly winds become dominant over the group in next 24 to 48 hours.
The Meteorology Services says the weather will be closely monitored through this weekend and next week and as any rapid changes are observed, advisories, alerts and warnings will be issued as appropriate.
