Fiji braces for Tropical Cyclone Mal

A tropical cyclone alert is now in place for Fiji.

The tropical depression east of the Solomon Islands developed into a Category 1 cyclone overnight, and could intensify to a Category 3 over the next 24 hours.

Schools in Fiji are closed today and tomorrow, and public servants are being told to work from home.

Modeling suggests the tropical cyclone will pass close to Viti Levu later tonight as a Category 2 system, then weaken as it continues south on Wednesday.

Areas which could be prone to flooding. Photo/Fiji Meteorological Service

Fiji Meteorological Service has issued a flash flood warning for low lying areas in Wailoku, including Marata Village and the crossing in Qauia Lami.

Flash flood alerts are in place for the coral coast to Navua, the Naitasiri Province, Ovalau Island, and the Lami/Suva/Nausori-Tailevu areas.

Speaking to FBC News, acting director Bipen Prakash is expecting storm-force winds over Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, western and southern Viti Levu, Vatulele, Kadavu and nearly islands.

“Extreme winds are mostly expected overnight, this is on Tuesday night, and it will continue into Wednesday.

“The system is expected to drift south by later on Wednesday, and possibly clear the group by late afternoon or evening.”

Prakash says the trough of low pressure is already bringing a lot of rainfall over the country, especially the Northern, Eastern, and Central Divisions.

The cyclone's projected path over the next 48 hours. Photo/X/Fiji Meteorological Service