A Heavy Rain Alert has been issued for the entire Fiji Group, following the approach of Tropical Disturbance TD07F. The Fiji Meteorological Service announced that the disturbance was officially recognized at midday today, positioned at roughly 13.9 degrees south and 167.9 degrees east, northeast of Vanuatu and moving towards Fiji.
TD07F is expected to shift south-southeast and may strengthen into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours. However, the likelihood of it developing into a full tropical cyclone remains low. In response to this weather system, an active trough of low pressure is forecasted to bring periods of heavy rainfall starting tomorrow, with conditions anticipated to improve by Friday.
Residents are urged to brace for strong winds, with northwesterly gales expected to reach up to 55 kilometers per hour and gusts potentially reaching 80 kilometers per hour. Areas likely to experience these conditions include the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, northern Vanua Levu, western and northern Viti Levu, Kadavu, and nearby islands.
Similar wind patterns are expected over the waters surrounding southwest Viti Levu, the Yasawa and Mamanuca areas, northern Vanua Levu waters, as well as the Kadavu and Vatu-i-Ra passages. Fortunately, the winds are expected to gradually diminish by Thursday as the disturbance moves away from Fiji.
In light of these developments, Fijians are advised to remain alert and make necessary preparations to ensure their safety and security during this period of active weather. This proactive approach will help residents navigate the challenges posed by the changing conditions while also fostering a sense of community resilience.