Flood warning for low lying areas in Western Division

A severe flood warning is in force for the major rivers, streams and low lying areas in the Western division for tonight and tomorrow.

A strong wind warning is now in force for the land areas of the Western half of Viti Levu, Yasawa and Mamanuca, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands.

A shallow tropical depression is located West South West of Nadi.

It is gradually moving towards the South and is not expected to develop into a tropical cyclone over the Fiji waters.

However the tropical depression will bring continuous heavy rain and people need to take precautions.

Forecast to midnight tonight:

Severe flooding of major rivers, streams and low lying areas in the Western division.

North to North West winds with average speeds of 35 to 50 kilometers per hour with momentary gusts to 85 kilometers per hour over the Western half of Viti Levu, Yasawa, and Mamanuca groups, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands.

More rain is expected tomorrow.

The severe flood warning for major rivers, streams, and low lying areas will remain for tomorrow.
 
The major worry for authorities now is that the next high tide is at midnight tonight with many people still stranded.

DISMAC Director Pajiliai Dobui has called on people who have boats to assist them in rescuing people who are surrounded by flood waters and stuck on the roofs of houses or in their homes.

Dobui said the next high tide is a major worry.

Dobui said many people still need to be rescued before nightfall.

A restriction of movement is in place in the major centers of the western division.

Police Spokesperson Atunaisa Sokomuri said they have restricted the movement of people into the towns of Rakiraki, Ba, Nadi, Sigatoka and the city of Lautoka due to flooding, loss of power and water supply in the areas.

He said there is also restriction of movement along the Queens highway from Korolevu right down to Lautoka which is closed to all traffic.

Some parts of the Kings road are also closed as the Wainibuka, Baleinaga and Naqia bridges are under water.