A flood warning has been issued for low-lying and flood-prone areas adjacent to and downstream of the Nakauvadra River in Rakiraki Town, the Naseyani region along the Yaqara River, and Tavua at Nasivi and the Tavua Town Bridge. Additionally, a flood alert has been announced for the flood plains of the Ba River.
The Fiji Meteorological Service reports that Tropical Cyclone URMIL, a Category 2 system, is currently positioned to the west-southwest of Kadavu and is tracking southeastward. The cyclone is associated with active rainbands and strong northwesterly winds that are impacting much of the Fiji group.
Weather officials have warned that these conditions significantly heighten the risk of river flooding, especially in river catchments already saturated from ongoing heavy rain. The situation is further complicated by the expected high tides: in Lautoka, the high tide of 2.23 meters occurs at 4:43 PM, while in Suva, it peaks at 5:56 PM.
Authorities emphasize that the combination of heavy rain, rising river levels, and elevated tides may exacerbate flooding in impacted areas. Continuous monitoring of near real-time river level data and rainfall forecasts indicates that water levels in Rakiraki, Tavua, and Ba are steadily rising above alert and warning thresholds.
Residents in affected communities are urged to stay alert, avoid river crossings and flooded roads, and heed all official weather warnings and advisories as the situation evolves. As the community prepares to face the impending severe weather, collaboration and vigilance will be key to ensuring safety in these challenging conditions.