Schools remain open amid heavy rain alert

The Ministry of Education is urging parents, guardians, school leaders, and the public to remain alert and exercise caution as a Heavy Rain Alert continues to affect the entire Fiji Group, according to the latest update from the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (NDRMO).

Education Minister Aseri Radrodro confirmed that schools will remain open as normal. However, he warned that continuous heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

He has called on school heads to closely monitor local weather conditions and maintain close communication with parents and guardians, especially where adjustments to student attendance may be required.

“The safety and well-being of students remain the highest priority,” the Minister said, encouraging parents to use their discretion and avoid sending children to school if travel conditions are unsafe or if rivers and crossings are flooded.

Radrodro also highlighted past incidents in which students attempted to cross flooded rivers to reach school, urging communities to take proactive steps to prevent similar risks.

He stressed the importance of timely communication between schools and families to ensure informed decision-making during adverse weather conditions.

The Minister added that the Ministry will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

Meanwhile, the NDRMO has strongly advised the public to avoid flood-affected areas, stay away from rivers and waterways, and refrain from attempting to swim or cross flooded crossings due to the serious risk to life.