Heavy rain alert issued for Western Division and Kadavu

A heavy rain alert is now in force for the Western Division and Kadavu as a slow-moving trough of low pressure continues to affect Fiji.

The Fiji Meteorological Service said the system remains over the country, bringing cloud and showers, while Tropical Disturbance 09F (TD09F) was located near Vanuatu at midday today.

TD09F is expected to gradually intensify and track to the southwest of Fiji over the next few days. As it moves southwest, it is forecast to bring strong northwesterly winds and heavy rain over the Western Division, especially from later Saturday.

Forecast

For the Western Division and Kadavu, occasional showers with isolated heavy falls and thunderstorms are expected.

From later Saturday, showers are forecast to increase to rain and become frequent and occasionally heavy, with a few thunderstorms.

Moderate to strong north to northwest winds are expected, with average speeds of 40km/h and gusts up to 60km/h. Seas will be rough to very rough.

Localised heavy falls may lead to flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Possible impacts

• Flash flooding in low-lying informal settlements, communities, businesses and at Irish crossings, leading to traffic disruptions.
• Surface flooding in urban areas with poor drainage.
• Wet roads and reduced visibility during heavy downpours, increasing the risk of road accidents.

Forecast confidence is moderate.