Heavy rain alert in force for entire Fiji group

The Fiji Meteorological Service has issued a heavy rain alert for the whole Fiji group.

In a special weather bulletin released at 11am today, the National Weather Forecasting Centre in Nadi said a trough of low pressure with associated cloud and showers was affecting the eastern parts of the country.

The system is expected to gradually spread across the rest of the group later today and affect Fiji for the next few days.

Occasional showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecast over the eastern parts of Viti Levu — from the greater Suva, Nausori and Tailevu North areas to interior Ra, Naitasiri and Serua-Namosi, as well as interior Nadroga/Navosa.

Northern Bua, eastern Macuata and Cakaudrove provinces, the Lau and Lomaiviti groups, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands are also expected to experience similar conditions.

Elsewhere, it will be partly cloudy with afternoon or evening showers and thunderstorms.

The Weather Office said occasional rain and a few thunderstorms with isolated heavy falls are expected to gradually develop tomorrow over most parts of the country.

Forecast confidence is moderate.

Authorities have warned of possible flash flooding in flood-prone low-lying informal settlements, communities and businesses, as well as at Irish crossings, which could lead to traffic disruptions.

Surface flooding is also likely in urban areas with poor drainage.