SUVA, Nov. 10 (Xinhua) -- The Fiji Meteorological Service issued a heavy rain alert Friday for the northern side of Fiji in Yasawa Group, Mamanuca Group, Lau and Lomaiviti Group.
Rain and thunderstorms, including isolated heavy falls, are predicted from later Saturday, with expected expansion over the entire country. From Sunday onwards, strong southeast winds of up to 45 km per hour and gusts up to 55 km per hour are forecasted for various areas.
A strong wind warning has also been issued for all Fiji waters.
Risks associated with the alert include localized flooding of minor roads and bridges, causing disruptions to traffic flow. Additionally, poor visibility at sea and on land may lead to an increased risk of motor vehicle accidents, the service said.
For mariners, southeasterly winds with speeds of 20 to 25 knots and rough seas are expected over Fiji waters, making conditions potentially hazardous for small crafts, it said.
The cyclone season in the region is usually observed between November and April. ■
