People in Northern Division prepare as tropical disturbance nears Fiji

Weather

People in Northern Division prepare as tropical disturbance nears Fiji

By Mansi Chand

13/12/2025

People in the Northern Division are preparing as a tropical disturbance located near the Solomon Islands continues to move closer to Fiji and is expected to be upgraded to a tropical depression by tomorrow.

Labasa taxi driver, David Anand says they have started preparing by buying handy items such as torches and batteries.

Anand is also urging people to stock up on necessities including canned food and bottled water.

Speaking to fijivillage News, he says they are strengthening their homes to withstand possible extreme weather conditions.

The taxi driver is also advising those with livestock to take steps to ensure their safety.

Meanwhile, Viliame Sukanaivalu of Raviravi, Seaqaqa says he was unaware that a tropical depression is expected to approach Fiji, as there is no network in his village.

Sukanaivalu says they plan to tie up and shelter their animals as they usually do during bad weather.

He is encouraging the people of Fiji to prepare themselves because anything can happen.

Meanwhile, the potential for Tropical Disturbance TD03F to develop into a Tropical Cyclone within the next 24 to 48 hours is low.

The Nadi Weather Office says the system is slowly moving over the Solomon Islands and is expected to track southeast, becoming a Tropical Depression from tomorrow.

As the system tracks southeast over Vanuatu, it is expected to enter Fiji waters by Tuesday.

The Weather Office says that as the system reaches Fiji, rain is expected to become more frequent and heavy, with fresh to strong gusty winds from Tuesday into Wednesday.

There will also be a high chance of flooding, including river flooding.

The Weather Office advises that effects may begin from Monday night into Tuesday.

Hazard flash flooding may occur due to heavy rain, based on rainfall forecast models and weather radar observations.

Heavy Rain Alert and Flash Flood Alert remains in force for the whole of Fiji, as a trough of low pressure continues to affect the group, bringing heavy rain at times.

Expect flooding of drainage systems, small streams, low water bridges, Irish crossings, roads, and properties in low-lying areas.

Residents are urged to take all necessary precautions, as heavy rain is expected to continue throughout the weekend due to the trough of low pressure associated with Tropical Disturbance TD03F.

Do not leave preparations to the last minute.