We are at 60% in our disaster readiness check – Seruiratu

With one to three severe tropical cyclones likely to affect Fiji during the 2021/2022 cyclone season, Minister for Disaster Management Inia Seruiratu says they are at 60% in their operational readiness check and are also working on some of the gaps they have identified.

He says there will be a meeting with the prevention and mitigation committee in the coming weeks before they convene another disaster council meeting.

Minister for Meteorological Services Jone Usamate says one to three tropical cyclones are likely to pass through Fiji's Exclusive Economic Zone.

Usamate says during the past cyclone seasons, a number of tropical cyclones that affected Fiji passed through the Western Division and there is an elevated risk that it will pass again in this division this season.

He adds the whole of Fiji should prepare for this season since frequent rainfall can cause flash flooding of low lying areas.

He says the predictions provided should only be a guide and all communities should remain alert and prepared.

Director National Disaster Management Office Vasiti Soko says they will be releasing information on all their online platforms so people can prepare.

Fiji's cyclone season is from November to April.