Tropical Cyclone Daphne forms to the west of Nadi

Tropical Cyclone Daphne is currently located near 19 decimal 8 South 172 decimal 7 East or about 550 kilometres west southwest of Nadi

Daphne is moving southeast at about 35 kilometres per hour.

Close to the centre the cyclone is estimated to have average wind
speeds of 65 kilometres per hour.

A gale warning remains in force for Viti Levu, Yasawa and Mamanuca group, Southern Lau group, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands.

A strong wind warning remains in force for the rest of the Fiji group.

A severe flood warning remains in force for all major rivers, streams, and low lying areas of Viti Levu.

Nadi Weather Office Director, Alipate Waqaicelua says Tropical Cyclone Daphne is expected to intensify further and people will experience damaging gale force winds over Viti Levu, Yasawa and Mamanuca group, Southern Lau group, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands from later today into tonight although Daphne will not make landfall over Fiji.

The most noticeable effect soon will be the strengthening of winds over Western Fiji.

Heavy rain is expected as we go into tonight so please be prepared for that.

Prolonged rain is expected from tonight to about midday tomorrow due to the amount of rain bands associated with the system.

 
There is a very high possibility of heavy rain pushing rivers above the flood levels again.

You have to take necessary precautions now and please do not leave it to the last minute and act when the flood waters have reached your doorsteps.

Make an assessment if you are living in flood prone areas and take action now.

Severe flooding of major rivers, streams and low lying areas including sea flooding of low lying coastal areas is expected later today and tonight.

Nadi Weather Office Director, Alipate Waqaicelua said there are many rain bands over many parts of Fiji and this will result in a lot of rain this afternoon.

He said you also need to get ready for gale force winds from this afternoon.