Heavy Rain Alert in Fiji: Viti Levu and nearby islands at risk of flash flooding

A Heavy Rain Alert is in force as a slow-moving low-pressure trough brings showers, thunderstorms, and heavy falls across Fiji.

A Heavy Rain Alert has been issued for parts of Fiji, with heavy downpours raising the risk of flash flooding and road disruption.

Misryoum reports the alert is currently in force for the interior, southern and eastern areas of Viti Levu, covering locations stretching from Rakiraki, Korovou and Naitasiri to Nadi, Suva, Navua, Pacific Harbour and Sigatoka.. It also includes Cakaudrove and southern Bua provinces, along with Taveuni, the Lomaiviti Group, Kadavu, and nearby smaller islands.

In the same bulletin, Misryoum says a slow-moving trough of low pressure is affecting Fiji, bringing cloud, showers and rain that are expected to continue for the next few days.

This kind of prolonged, low-pressure weather can turn routine rainfall into a safety issue quickly, especially for communities in low-lying areas and for road users.

Officials warn residents to expect occasional rain with isolated thunderstorms, including heavy falls. The alert highlights that rainfall intensity may increase over time rather than staying steady.

Misryoum also notes the possible impacts include flash flooding in flood-prone, low-lying informal settlements and communities, as well as around businesses and Irish crossings. Surface flooding is also a concern for streets in urban areas that have drainage challenges.

Beyond flooding, wet roads and reduced visibility during heavier downpours can raise the risk of road accidents, particularly when visibility drops suddenly.

For many people, a weather alert is more than a forecast. It is a reminder to plan around travel and to stay alert to rapidly changing conditions after intense rain.

Misryoum urges the public to stay informed and follow updates as the situation develops over the coming days.