Food been delivered to an evacuation centre in Fiji. Photo: Fiji Government
Fiji's National Disaster Management Office says 192 people have been moved to five evacuation centres in the Western Division, where nearly 40 percent of Fiji's population live, as a tropical storm nears the country.
Fiji police have confirmed that a man was swept away by strong currents and another man is still missing as flood waters begin to rise again a week after Cyclone Josie.
Heavy rain, widespread flooding, and damaging winds are expected over the next 24 to 48 hours.
The Director National Disaster Management Office Anare Leweniqila said the weather system has a high potential of developing into a category one cyclone.
"A cyclone warning has been issued early for the whole of the Fiji group as the tropical depression approaches the country, making people aware of the situation early," he said.
Mr Leweniqila said overnight there were heavy downpours in parts of the country.
Cyclone Josie caused widespread flooding and landslides in Fiji last weekend, leading to six reported deaths and hundreds seeking shelter in evacuation centres.
The National Disaster Management Office along with key response agencies is closely monitoring the weather situation and stand ready to respond when necessary.
Shri Ghurnanak Khalsa College in Labasa is closed for the day due to heavy rain and extensive flooding in the area. Photo: Fijian Government
To prepare for cyclone conditions, members of the public should take the following actions:
Strengthen the walls and roof of homes:
Trim treetops and tree branches
Clear the compound of loose material that can easily be blown by strong or cyclonic winds
Stay informed of latest weather advice
In the event of a flood, members of the public should take heed of the following advice:
Evacuate to an evacuation centre or safe place on higher ground
Refrain from walking or driving through flood waters;
Practice caution when travelling along hillsides or landslide-prone areas.
Parents and teachers are to ensure that infants and children do not play in flooded areas, drains, rivers, and other waterways.
Stay informed for regular updates on all media for further alerts or advisories from authorities.
DISMAC Phone Contacts:
National Emergency Operation Center: 3319250
Central Division: 3683250
Eastern Division: 7848858
Northern Division: 8280359
Western Division: 6281553
Emergency Phone Numbers:
Police: 911
Fire: 910
Fiji Electricity Authority - Electrical Emergencies: 913
The tropical depression was intensifying in waters near Vanuatu. By the time it reached Fiji on Sunday, it would likely be a cyclone, forecasters said. Photo: Fiji Meteorological Service
