26 Dec 2019 | 07:20 AM UTC
Fiji: Tropical Depression 03F to impact Fiji and Rotuma December 26-27
Weather officials forecast Tropical Depression 03F to impact several islands across Fiji and Rotuma between December 26-27; heavy rain, strong wind, rough seas, flooding, and associated disruptions expected
Event
The Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS) issued a statement at 13:00 (local time) on Thursday, December 26, forecasting Tropical Depression 03F to impact Fiji and Rotuma from Thursday, through to at least Friday, December 27. The weather service expects heavy rain and thunderstorms across Fiji on Thursday, followed by damaging winds and high seas on Friday. In Rotuma, the FMS forecasts strong winds with speeds between 45-65 kph (28-40 mph) on Thursday, as well as very rough to high seas, heavy rain, sea flooding, and thunderstorms. The meteorology agency also announced that a tropical cyclone alert and heavy rain warnings are in place for all islands across Fiji, while a gale warning is in force for Rotuma.
As of 12:00 on Thursday, 03F is located at approximately 10.6°S 175.4°E (map here) and is moving south-southwest at 10 kph (6 mph). The FMS forecasts the depression to gradually intensify into a tropical cyclone on Friday, with momentary gusts up to 95 kph (59 mph). Associated flooding, landslides, and transportation disruptions are anticipated, as well as disruptions to power and communication services.
Advice
Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, anticipate transportation disruptions, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
