Heavy rain alert issued for Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands, Lau and Lomaiviti Group

A heavy rain alert is now in force for Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands, Lau and Lomaiviti Group.

A strong wind warning is also in force for the land areas of Lau Group while a strong wind warning remains in force for Lau Waters and Northern Vanua Levu Waters.

The warnings have been issued due to a weak trough of low pressure that lies over the eastern parts of Fiji and another active trough of low pressure that lies to the northeast of the group which is expected to drift southwest and affect the northern and eastern parts of the country from tonight.

The Fiji Meteorological Service says these anticipated bad weather conditions may cause flash flooding of low lying and flood prone areas during persistent localised heavy falls, lightning strikes during thunderstorms, flooding of small rivers, creeks and crossings and landslides.

It also confirms a low pressure system is expected to develop over waters between Fiji and Vanuatu around Sunday and the chances of this system further developing into a tropical cyclone is moderate.

Fiji Meteorological Service adds it will continue to monitor this weather event and update warnings and forecasts accordingly.