Floods close roads

RAKIRAKI – More roads and bridges in the Western Division of Fiji have closed because of heavy rain experienced over the past 24 hours.

The Fiji Meteorological Service is watching the progress of Category One Tropical Cyclone Winston, located near Vanuatu and heading south.

Winston poses no direct threat to Fiji, says Fiji Meteorological Service director Ravind Kumar.

However, while the system is moving southeast and intensifying, parts of the country are likely to experience heavy rain and strong wind.

According to the National Emergency Operation Centre, 19 roads and bridges in Rakiraki, Tavua, Sigatoka and Ba have been confirmed as flooded.

Rakiraki’s Savusavu bridge and Vunikavikaloa bridge are reported to be both under two metres of water while Ra High School, Barotu Indian school, Dobuilevu Muslim School and Vunikavikaloa High School are closed as a result of the flooded access ways.

The public in Rakiraki have also been advised to keep away from certain locations that are now heavily flooded.

All of the areas continue to be monitored by police.

“The general public especially those that live in the Tavua and Rakiraki area have been urged to be vigilant due to widespread rain across many areas around Fiji,” the NEOC said.

“A flood warning is in force for low lying pocket areas in the western division especially along Rakiraki River including Rakiraki Town.” - PNC