Heavy rain alert in force for most parts of Fiji

A heavy rain alert is in force for the Eastern and Interior parts of Viti Levu and also Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Lau and the Lomaiviti group.

This rain is being brought by two separate low pressure systems.

The Weather Office says a trough of low pressure lies over the southern parts of the Fiji group while another trough of low pressure with associated cloud and showers affects the Fiji group from the north.

It says localised heavy falls may lead to flash flooding of low lying areas.

The Weather Office stresses that showers are expected to become frequent and heavy from later today.

The low pressure system is anticipated to intensify further into a depression in the next few days as it moves southeast towards the Group.

Acting Director of Meteorology Viliame Vereivalu says as the system moves closer to the Group, it is expected to bring rain, heavy at times and moderate to fresh southeast winds over lands areas from Sunday.

People can expect strong winds with speeds of 45 to 55 km/hr next Monday which is expected to enhance to gale force winds, with speeds of 60‑75 km/hr gusting to 100km/hr from next Tuesday.

Winds can break tree branches and uproot shallow rooted trees as it picks up speed.