Fiji: Adverse weather warnings in place, recovery efforts and evacuations ongoing as of Jan. 13 following passage of TC Cody /update 1

Event

Recovery efforts and evacuations are ongoing in Fiji as of Jan. 13 following the passage of TC Cody. The storm made a close approach to southwestern Fiji Jan. 9 but did not make any landfall. As of Jan. 13, the Fiji Meteorological Service maintains heavy rain warnings in the Northern Division as well as Lau and Lomaiviti groups; occasional heavy rain and a few thunderstorms are forecast. Occasional heavy showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecast for the rest of Fiji.

A flash flood warning has been issued for all low-lying and flash flood-prone areas from Seaqaqa to Labasa and from Wailevu to Savusavu, while a flash flood alert is maintained for all low-lying and flash flood-prone areas in the rest of Fiji. A flood alert is in place for low-lying areas along and downstream of Rewa, Qawa, Nasekawa, Drakaniwai, and Rakiraki Town rivers.

Reports indicate at least one fatality in Tavua Jan. 9 due to floodwaters. As of Jan. 12, the National Disaster Management Office has confirmed that 4,630 people have evacuated to 162 evacuation centers across the country, mostly in the Western Division. Schools will remain closed until they receive clearance that it is safe to reopen as 58 schools are being used as evacuation centers and will need to be decontaminated.

Power outages are ongoing across Fiji, especially on western Viti Levu due to damaged infrastructure. Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) estimates that power will be restored on Rakiraki and Nadarivatu Jan. 16, Tavua Jan. 13-14, Ba Jan. 14-15, Lautoka Jan. 14, Nadi Jan. 13-15, and Sigatoka Jan. 14-16.

At least 104 roads remain closed due to flooding and damage; the roads are likely to be reopened after floodwaters recede and damage is fixed. Protracted transport and business disruptions are almost certain as responders continue their efforts; utility disruptions are likely over the coming days and weeks. Shortages of fuel and other basic goods are possible. Driving conditions may be difficult on rural routes and regional highways.

Advice

Monitor local media for updates and advisories on weather conditions. Make allowances for possible supply chain disruptions in affected areas. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Use extreme caution in low-lying areas and near streams, creeks, and other waterways due to the potential for flooding. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where flooding has occurred. Confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport; clearing passenger backlogs may take several days in some locations.

Resources

Fiji Meteorological Service
Fiji Roads Authority Road Status