Heavy rain alert now in force for western half of Viti Levu

A heavy rain alert is now in force for the western half of Viti Levu which includes Sigatoka to Rakiraki, Yasawa and Mamanuca group, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands and the Southern Lau Group.

The Nadi Weather Office says Category 5 Tropical Cyclone Harold was located at about 1190 kilometres West of Nadi at 9 this morning.

They say TC Harold is moving east at 13 km/hr.

The Weather Office says the centre of TC Harold is expected to pass just to the south of the group on Wednesday.

The associated rain bands are expected to affect the country from later tomorrow.