Heavy rain warning in force as TC Urmil tracks near Fiji

A heavy rain warning is now in force for the Western Division, Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, as a slow-moving trough and Tropical Cyclone Urmil influence weather conditions across Fiji.

The National Weather Forecasting Centre in Nadi issued Special Weather Bulletin Number Four at 4.30am today.

A heavy rain alert is also in force for Macuata and northern Bua provinces.

Category 1 Tropical Cyclone Urmil is currently over Vanuatu and is expected to track southeast, passing to the southwest of Fiji. While the system is not forecast to move directly over the country, it is expected to generate strong and moist northwesterly winds over the group, with active rain bands developing from later today.

Western Division, Yasawa, Mamanuca, Kadavu

For the Western Division, Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, occasional showers with isolated heavy falls and thunderstorms are expected.

Showers are forecast to increase to rain and become frequent and heavy with a few thunderstorms from later today.

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

Macuata, northern Bua

For Macuata and northern Bua Province, occasional showers with isolated thunderstorms and heavy falls are forecast.

Rain is expected to become frequent and heavy with a few thunderstorms from later Sunday.

Flash flooding is also possible in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Possible impacts

Authorities warn of possible flash flooding in informal settlements, businesses and Irish crossings, which may lead to traffic disruptions.

Surface flooding is likely in urban areas with poor drainage. Wet roads and reduced visibility during heavy downpours may increase the risk of road accidents.

Forecast confidence is rated moderate to high.