Expect heavy rain and thunderstorms over the weekend

People should expect heavy rain and thunderstorms over the weekend as a trough of low pressure with associated clouds and rain is expected to develop to the east of Fiji and affect parts of the group from later today.

The Nadi Meteorological Office says another trough of low pressure lies slowly moving to the southwest of Fiji and is gradually drifting southeast towards the group.

They say these systems are expected to result in occasional rain, heavy at times, and isolated thunderstorms over the eastern half of Viti Levu, southern Bua, Cakaudrove and northeastern Macuata, Lau and Lomaiviti Group, Beqa, Vatulele, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands from later tonight.

It says a heavy rain alert is now in force for these areas, and localised heavy rainfalls may lead to flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas.

For the rest of the Fiji Group, expect cloudy periods with some showers. Afternoon or evening thunderstorms with heavy falls are likely over some places.

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

The Nadi Weather Office says conditions are expected to ease later Monday, but isolated heavy falls may continue in the afternoon.

The Fiji Meteorological Service will continue to monitor this weather event and update warnings and forecasts accordingly.