Fiji can expect two to three cyclones in the coming season, the Fiji Meteorological and Hydrological Service predicts.

One is predicted to reach category three, a severe tropical cyclone with wind gusts up to 224km/h.

These are not actual forecasts, but predictions based on statistical and scientific evidence.

The Tropical Cyclone season begins on November 1 and ends on April 30, 2017.

The Fiji Meteorological and Hydrological Service released its annual Tropical Seasonal outlook at a press conference yesterday.

It is very important that the public pays close attention to all weather forecast, warnings and advisories issued by the Service and the Government.

Permanent Secretary for Infrastructure and Transport Paul Bayly said people should be quick in taking heed of warnings and necessary precautions to save lives and protect properties.

Fiji Meteorological Service director, Ravind Kumar said: “Members of the public should be well prepared before the cyclone season begins. In preparation, people should see that all loose objects lying around the compound be tied and secured properly. At the same time, the overgrown trees are pruned.”

Mr Kumar said they have made an improvement from the previous years and they would be informing the public well in advance.

“The alerts will come in 48 hours before an event is going to happen, and warnings in 24 hours.

“However, we will continuously provide media releases when we expect things to change.”

Edited by Paula Tuvuki

Feedback:  selita.bolanavanua@fijisun.com.fj