Suva – Tropical Depression 12F rapidly intensified to Category 1 Tropical Cyclone Josie last night.
WEATHER UPDATE
At 9am this morning the following warnings associated with Cyclone Josie were in place by the Fiji Meteorological Services:
· A Gale Warning remains in force for Yasawa and Mamanuca Group, Viti Levu, Kadavu and nearby smaller islands, Lau and Lomaiviti Group.
· A Strong Wind Warning remains in force for the rest of Fiji.
· A Heavy Rain Warning remains in force for the whole of the Fiji group.
In light of these series of warnings, the National Disaster Management Office is advising the general public to exercise precautions and prioritize safety until all threats associated with the cyclone pass.
ADVICE FOR KADAVU AND EXPECTED AFFECTED AREAS
If Tropical Cyclone Josie continues on its projected path, people living in Kadavu and nearby islands may begin to feel the full brunt of the Category 1 Storm after midday today (Sunday).
Accordingly, communities in Kadavu should be prepared and implement their community disaster plans.
Coastal residents in Kadavu should remain vigilant during high tides as storm surges may inundate coastal areas.
While much weaker then Category 5 Tropical Cyclone Winston, Category 1 storms are accompanied by damaging gale force winds and rough seas which may bring minimal damages to infrastructure.
Those in Yasawa and the Mamanuca Group, Viti Levu, Lau, and Lomaiviti are also advised to remain watchful and prepared as gale force winds, heavy rains, and rough seas may be experienced.
ADVICE FOR SEA TRAVEL
Travelling out into the sea by small boats such as small fishing or fiber glass boats is strongly discouraged. While people may want to travel and spend this Easter holiday with loved ones, safety of lives must be prioritized.
ADVICE FOR HEAVY RAIN AND FLOODS
At 9am this morning, the following flood warnings and alerts were in place:
· A Flood Warning remains in force for low lying areas and areas adjacent to Emuri to Semo Village and downstream for Tuva River; Vatutu to Nadi Town for Nawaka River; Votualevu to Nadi Town for Nadi River; Toge to Ba Town for Ba River; Vatukacevaceva to Rakiraki Town and Nasivi to Tavua Town for Tavua River;
· A Flood Alert remains in force for Low lying areas, small streams and areas adjacent to major rivers of Fiji and now in force for areas adjacent to and downstream of Keiyasi along Sigatoka River.
Flood warnings must be adhered to as areas in the Western and Central Division are beginning to experience floods.
Communities living in low-lying and flood prone areas should secure their property and make necessary preparations to evacuate to higher ground or their nearest evacuation center when necessary.
Children should refrain from playing in flooded rivers, drains, roads, or waterways.
ADVICE FOR MOTORISTS
Pedestrians and motorists are advised to refrain at all times from crossing floodwaters as depth and force of floodwaters cannot be determined easily. Drivers are advised to drive slowly and safely as heavy rain may cause poor visibility.
Turaga Ni Koro’s, District Advisory Councillors, and community leaders of areas affected by Tropical Cyclone Josie must ensure the safety of all community members particularly children, senior citizens, and people living with disabilities.
The National Disaster Management Authority along with key responding agencies are closely monitoring the situation and stand ready to respond should the need arise.
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