El Nino is likely to continue to influence Fiji’s weather and climate: Acting director Funaki

The Fiji Metrological Services in Nadi has recorded the lowest total rainfall last month at Lautoka Sugar Mill and Dreketi as the country continues to face the effects of strong El Nino conditions

The Lautoka mill received only 2.4 millimetres of total monthly rain, breaking the 1997 record of 2.9mm while Dreketi registered 30.0mm of rainfall, outstripping the 1977 record of 45.1mm

Acting director Misaeli Funaki said the total monthly rainfall at Nacocolevu, Rarawai Mill, Dobuilevu, Laucala Bay, Koronivia and Viwa ranked in the lowest 5th of the historical record.

Mr Funaki said the strong condition continued to influence regional climate patterns during last month as it was exceptionally drier than normal the past month (October) with almost three-quarter of the stations receiving less than half the normal rainfall.

“El Nino is likely to continue to influence Fiji’s weather and climate through most of 2016 and this remains in force.”

Members of the public are once again advised to be water smart and continue to use water wisely without misusing it as the dry spell continues to affect the Western and Northern Division. Edited by Manasa Kalouniviti

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