A Heavy Rain Alert has been issued for the entire Fiji Group as Tropical Disturbance TD07F approaches the region. The Fiji Meteorological Service reported that TD07F was officially tagged at midday today, located at approximately 13.9 degrees south and 167.9 degrees east, to the northeast of Vanuatu and moving in the direction of Fiji.
The disturbance is predicted to shift south-southeast and intensify into a tropical depression within the next day. However, the chances of it evolving into a tropical cyclone remain relatively low. As a result of this system, an active trough of low pressure is expected to usher in periods of heavy rain across Fiji starting tomorrow. Rainfall is anticipated to decrease by Friday.
Residents should prepare for strong wind conditions that are expected to develop tomorrow, with northwesterly winds potentially reaching speeds of up to 55 kilometers per hour and gusts hitting 80 kilometers per hour. Affected areas include the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, northern Vanua Levu, western and northern Viti Levu, Kadavu, and surrounding islands.
The same strong wind patterns are expected over waters surrounding southwest Viti Levu, as well as the Yasawa and Mamanuca waters, northern Vanua Levu waters, and the Kadavu and Vatu-i-Ra passages. Fortunately, wind speeds are predicted to gradually decrease by Thursday as the disturbance moves further away from Fiji.
Fijians are advised to remain vigilant and prepare for the weather changes, ensuring their safety and security during this period of heightened weather activity.