Damaging Heavy Swell and Coastal Flood Alert Issued For Kadavu and Southern Lau

The Fiji Meteorological Service has issued the following warning for people living along coastal areas of Kadavu and Southern Lau Group and those navigating southern parts of Fiji waters.

Issued at 9.30am Friday, 11 June 2021

A deep low pressure system lies to the far southeast of Fiji and is expected to generate and direct moderate to damaging heavy southeasterly swells over the southern parts of Fiji waters.

Therefore, a damaging heavy swell alert has been issued this morning for Southern Lau waters, Southern Koro Sea, Kadavu Passage and Southwest Viti Levu Waters.

A coastal flood alert has also been issued for the southern coastal areas of Kadavu and the Southern Lau Group (especially Ono-i-Lau).

For the southern coastal areas of Kadavu and the Southern Lau Group (especially Ono-i-Lau), expect coastal sea flooding especially during high tide for tomorrow and Sunday.

For Southern Lau Waters, Southern Koro Sea, Kadavu Passage and Southwest Viti Levu waters, expect moderate swells with significant wave heights of 2.0 to 2.5 meters today and damaging heavy swells of 3.5 to 4.0 meters from tomorrow. Swells expected to gradually recede from Sunday.

For Northern Lau Waters and the rest of Koro Sea, expect significant wave heights of 1.5 to 2.0 meters today and moderate swells with significant wave heights of 2.5 to 3.5 meters from tomorrow until Monday.

Those living along the coastal areas of Kadavu and the Southern Lau Group (especially Ono- i-Lau) are advised to remain cautious and vigilant of occasional sea flooding during high tide.

Hazardous breaking waves, strong currents are risky for swimming, fishing, boating and other sea activities. Vessel operators are advised against navigating in these conditions as ships and small boats can capsize due to large waves and rough seas.

The current situation is closely monitored. Members of the public are advised to remain updated with the latest weather information.