Police warn: Keep children away from floodwaters

The Fiji Police Force is urging parents and members of the public to keep children away from flooded areas and waterways during the current spell of bad weather.

Following heavy rain and flash flooding experienced across the country yesterday, officers assisted with evacuations in affected areas raised concerns about children’s safety.

“Of concern for officers throughout the day were sights of children playing in flooded areas and jumping off bridges into swollen rivers, whereby they were warned to return to their homes,” the Fiji Police Force said on its website last night.

“We cannot emphasise enough the importance of complying with safety advisories, as they are being issued to prevent injury and loss of life.”

Police officers in the Western Division worked tirelessly in the rain alongside stakeholders to evacuate members of flood-affected communities.

“Please continue to follow the Fiji Meteorological Service and Fiji National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDMO) for regular updates about the current weather situation,” Police said.

Meanwhile, officials from the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, led by Minister Mosese Bulitavu, continued touring affected areas to assess the impact of flooding on communities and key infrastructure.

They visited parts of Ra and Ba, including Vunikavikaloa Crossing in Nalawa, Nailawa Irish Crossing in Saivou, Korotale Crossing in Naroko, Katudrau Crossing in Rakiraki and Qalau Flats.

“Assessments are focused on road access, crossings, and community safety to guide immediate response and recovery efforts,” Mr Bulitavu said.