Expect a wet Diwali as a heavy rain warning is in force

Expect a wet Diwali as a heavy rain warning is in force for the whole of the Fiji Group.

The Weather Office says this is due to an extensive area of cloud and rain approaching the group from the west and expected to affect the country from tomorrow until Thursday.

A moist southeasterly wind flow continues to affect the eastern and central parts of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.

For today, occasional rain is expected over the greater Suva, Nausori and Tailevu areas, Naitasiri, Serua/Namosi, Sigatoka to Korolevu, Kadavu, Lau and Lomaiviti groups, Cakaudrove Province and southern parts of Bua.

Afternoon and evening showers is anticipated for the rest of the Fiji Group.

Rain and thunderstorms is expected over most places from tomorrow, becoming frequent and heavy from the afternoon.

Heavy falls may lead to flash flooding of low lying and flood prone areas and localised flooding of Irish crossings.

Disruption to traffic is likely due to poor visibility in areas of heavy rain.

The Weather Office says rain has been falling for the last couple of days and with already saturated soil, the risk of landslide remains.

Heavy rain is expected to ease over the group from Thursday. A Strong Wind Warning remains in force for the land areas of Yasawa Group, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, Lau and Lomaiviti groups. Strong southeasterly winds with speeds up to 45 kilometres per hour is expected over these areas.

Winds of this strength can break tree branches and damage weak and unshielded structures like temporary sheds and tents in exposed communities.