Heavy rain alert remains for northern and eastern islands

A heavy rain alert remains in force for Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands, as well as the Lau and Lomaiviti groups, the Nadi Weather Office said in a special bulletin issued at 10.30am today.

The alert for the rest of the Fiji group has been cancelled.

A slow-moving trough of low pressure remains over the country and is expected to gradually drift east of Fiji. Associated cloud and showers are forecast to continue affecting the eastern and northern divisions until later Wednesday.

For the affected areas, forecasters expect occasional rain, isolated heavy falls and thunderstorms.

Possible impacts

• Flash flooding of low-lying and flood-prone communities, informal settlements, businesses and Irish crossings.
• Traffic disruptions due to rising water levels.
• Slippery roads leading to hazardous driving conditions and increased risk of accidents, especially in poorly drained areas.

The next Special Weather Bulletin will be issued at around 10.30pm today or earlier if conditions change.