Issued at 4.44pm Wednesday, 02 February 2022

A trough of low pressure with cloud and rain remains slow moving to the northwest of Fiji and currently affects parts of the country.

This trough is expected to move over the group and bring continuous heavy rain over most parts of the country from tomorrow.

Meanwhile, a northerly wind flow prevails over the group.

Also, another trough of low pressure with associated rain and thunderstorms is likely to approach the Group from the west on Sunday and is expected to enhance heavy rain and prolong the event into early next week.

Rain has been falling for the last couple of days and with already saturated soil, there is risk of flooding and landslides.

Hence, the following warnings are currently in force;

A Heavy Rain Alert remains in force for the Northern Division, western interior of Viti Levu, western and northern Viti Levu, Kadavu, Yasawa and Mamanuca Group.

A Flash Flood Watch remains in force for all low lying and flood prone areas for the Northern Division, western interior of Viti Levu, western and northern Viti Levu, Kadavu, Yasawa and Mamanuca Group.

A heavy rain warning will be issued for the Northern Division, Yasawa and Mamanuca Group from tonight.

Figure 1: Mean Sea Level Analysis Map that was issued by the Fiji Meteorological Service National Weather Forecasting Centre at 12pm today, 2nd January, 2022.

These anticipated weather conditions may cause:
1. Risk of flash flooding of low lying and flood prone areas during persistent localised heavy falls.

2. Risk of lightning strikes during thunderstorms.

3. Risk of flooding of small rivers, creeks and crossings.

4. Risk of landslides with continuous rainfall over prolonged durations.

5. Poor visibility on roads in areas of heavy rain for motorists.

6. Reduced visibility at sea.

Figure 2: Flash Flood Watch Map that was issued by the Fiji Meteorological Service National Weather Forecasting Centre at 8.30am today, 2nd January, 2022.

The Fiji Meteorological Service will continue to monitor this weather event and update warnings and forecasts accordingly.

For more information and clarification: please contact the Acting Director of Meteorology, Mr. Terry Atalifo on (679) 9905379 or via email at terry.atalifo@met.gov.fj.

For latest forecasts, you can visit the Fiji Meteorological Service website at www.met.gov.fj follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

For Heavy Rain Alert: https://www.met.gov.fj/index.php?page=warn1#20014.txt

For the 5-Day TC Outlook: https://www.met.gov.fj/index.php?page=5dayoutlook

For the 7-Day Outlook: https://www.met.gov.fj/index.php?page=outlookdetail

For Fiji Flash Flood Warning: https://www.met.gov.fj/index.php?page=warn1#20018.txt

Feedback: adi.sovasiga@fijisun.com.fj