28 Mar 2018

Fiji warned about heavy rain

7:15 am on 28 March 2018
Sheltering from the rain in downtown Nadi, Fiji.

Rain expcted to raise flooding risk in Fiji Photo: RNZI / Johnny Blades

The National Disaster Management Office in Fiji is advising the public to exercise caution with rainy, wet conditions expected before and into Easter weekend.

A heavy rain alert is in force for the whole of Fiji and its met service says flooding could occur in low lying areas.

The office says people should refrain from walking through flood waters and be cautious when travelling along hillsides and areas prone to slips.

It says the rain could limit visibility on roads and that motorists should not drive through floods.

While families may want to celebrate the holidays with loved ones, the office says safety must be prioritised by people preparing emergency kits and knowing the location of their nearest evacuation centre.

Mariners are also being advised to heed advice about strong winds especially those with small fishing boats and vessels with fiberglass hulls.