The Fiji Meteorological Service has issued a La Niña Watch for the nation, predicting a weak La Niña event may develop between November 2025 and January 2026. This announcement follows their recent Fiji Climate Outlook report, which indicates that residents should prepare for normal to above-normal rainfall across most regions in the coming months.
In November, rainfall is expected to meet or exceed average levels throughout Fiji, although conditions on Rotuma could be less predictable. For the November 2025 to January 2026 period, the forecast suggests a high likelihood of above-normal rainfall across the entire nation, including Rotuma, with this trend likely to continue into February and April 2026.
Alongside the increase in rainfall, the forecast anticipates both maximum and minimum temperatures to remain above normal during the wet season, leading to humid conditions. The Met Service has cautioned that as Fiji approaches La Niña conditions, there is a heightened risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Historically, La Niña events are associated with increased rainfall during Fiji’s wet season. While such wet conditions can pose challenges, they also offer critical benefits for local agriculture by replenishing water supplies and promoting crop growth. As such, these seasonal weather patterns may bolster Fiji’s agricultural sector, having a positive impact on the national economy over time.
As communities gear up for the upcoming season, staying informed and taking proactive measures will be crucial to mitigating risks linked to greater rainfall and potential flooding. The resilience demonstrated by Fijian communities in the past offers hope that they will successfully navigate these environmental challenges while embracing the benefits brought by the expected seasonal rains.