Fiji: Warnings remain in place ahead of cyclone /update 1

Event

Fiji remains on high alert as a tropical depression (TD13F) intensifies into a tropical cyclone as it moves towards the country, forecast to bring gale force winds, heavy rains and flooding from Monday, April 9. As of 22:00 (local time) the depression is currently moving northwards away from the country, but is expected to turn and track southeast from later Sunday evening, developing into a cyclone within the next 12 to 24 hours.

The Fiji Metrological Service has issued nationwide strong wind, heavy rain and flood warnings, while tropical cyclone alerts are issued for Yasawa and Mamanuca group, Viti Levu, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, Lomaiviti and southern Lau group. Damaging gale force winds are forecast from late Monday afternoon across the Western division, reaching Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, the rest of Viti Levu, Lomaiviti and the Southern Lau group from Tuesday morning.

Heavy rains have already resulted in significant flooding across areas in the north and west of the country, forcing thousands to seek shelter in evacuation centers. The government has announced that all schools will be closed nationwide until at least Wednesday.

Context

The government urged its population on April 6, to be on high alert and to prepare for more severe weather over the next few days, a week after Tropical Cyclone Josie battered the island nation, killing six.

Advice

Individuals present in Fiji are advised to monitor the situation via local weather reports and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.