Heavy rain in the Western Division caused flash flooding in Rakiraki Town yesterday.

The rain was caused by Tropical Depression (TD09F) affecting the Fiji Group which was last night reported to have developed into Tropical Cyclone (TC) Winston.

The town was closed when flood waters entered shops and schools closed early.

Portions of the Queens Road along Rakiraki were also flooded.People used trucks and other means of transportation to cross flooded roads.

Ra provincial administrator Kelepi Kubunameca said the flooding was caused by a bootleneck in a creek that ran through town.

“This time around I cannot say that it’s drainage problem since other parts of Rakiraki were also underwater,” Mr Kubunameca said.

Meanwhile, Commissioner Western, Manasa Tagicakibau would chair a meeting with stakeholders today in Rakiraki Town to discuss measures of assistance during floods.

The meeting will be at the Penang Sangam High School Hall at 3.30pm.

Nabuna Village takes precautions

Residents of Nabuna Village in Tavua have started preparation to remain safe during the bad weather affecting the country.

Village headman Waisake Qauqau, 42, said the villagers had taken necessary precautions to remain safe;

“I advised villagers to keep track of the changing weather pattern and be prepared for any flooding that might occur because of heavy rain,” Mr Qauqau said.

Edited by Maikeli Seru

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