Schools closed nationwide as weather worsens

All schools across Fiji have been ordered to close today after worsening weather conditions overnight prompted the Ministry of Education to prioritise student safety amid heavy rain, flooding, strong winds and coastal inundation.

The decision was announced by Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro following consultations with the National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO) and the Fiji Meteorological Service.

The closure comes hours after earlier assessments indicated schools could remain open.

The ministry said updated forecasts and reports received overnight showed a significant deterioration in weather conditions across the country.

"Persistent heavy rainfall, strong winds, coastal inundation, and flooding continue to affect many parts of Fiji, with several flood-prone areas already impacted and further flooding expected this morning."

With conditions expected to remain unpredictable, the ministry said all primary and secondary schools would remain closed today.

Tertiary institutions have been encouraged to make their own decisions based on local conditions.

Mr Radrodro said the precautionary measure was aimed at reducing risks to students, teachers and families.

"This precautionary decision has been made to minimise unnecessary travel and reduce the risk to students, teachers, and families as weather conditions remain unpredictable."

He urged parents and guardians to keep children at home and avoid travelling through affected areas.

The minister also warned against crossing flooded roads, bridges, creeks and rivers.

Heads of schools have been asked to remain in close contact with School Management Committees and District Education Offices, continue monitoring local conditions and report any weather-related damage to school facilities.

The Ministry of Education said it would continue working closely with the NDRMO, the Fiji Meteorological Service and other relevant authorities to monitor the situation.

Further announcements regarding the reopening of schools will be made when conditions improve and it is safe to do so.

Mr Radrodro thanked parents, teachers, students and school communities for their cooperation and understanding.

He said the decision had been made with "the safety and the wellbeing of Fiji's children and school communities as the highest priority."