Fiji: Flooding and related disruptions reported across parts of country as of March 21

Flooding and related disruptions have been reported across many parts of Fiji as of March 21. Heavy rainfall has affected areas across the country since at least March 16 due to an active trough of low pressure over the islands, leading to many rivers overflowing and flash flooding in some locations. All schools, tertiary education institutions, government offices, and courts across Fiji were closed on March 20 due to the severe weather. Power and water cuts have been reported in some affected areas. Many roads across the country are closed due to flooding, including several in Korovou and Navua in the Central Division, Ba and Tavua in the Western Division, and Bua and Seaqaqa in the Northern Division. Areas on Vanua Levu and Viti Levu are among the worst affected, including the town of Ba which has been inundated following the overflow of Elevuka Creek. At least 230 people have been displaced due to flooding on these islands.

Further rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across Fiji over the coming days. As of March 20, the Fiji Meteorological Service had maintained a heavy rain warning across the country. The organization also issued a flood warning for flood-prone areas adjacent to and downstream of the Waimanu and Nadi rivers, as well as a flood alert for flood-prone areas adjacent to and downstream of the Wainimala, Waidina, Wainibuka, and Ba rivers. Additionally, a flash flood warning remained in force for all flood-prone areas, small streams, and low-lying areas on Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood- and landslide-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.