Flood alerts in force as Tropical Cyclone “Sarai” strengthens to Category 2, Fiji
Tropical Cyclone "Sarai" strengthened into Category 2 on the Fiji Intensity Scale (Category 1 on the Saffir-Simpson scale) on December 28, 2019, and was positioned about 90 km (56 miles) SSE of Kadavu and 190 km (118 miles) S of Suva at 14:00 UTC today (03:00 LT, December 29).
At the time, the cyclone had average winds up to 110 km/h (68 mph) with momentary gusts to 150 km/h (93 mph), according to RMSC Nadi. It was moving NE at about 9 km/h (6 mph).
A Flood Warning remains in force for low lying areas downstream of Navolau station in the Rewa River.
A Flood Alert remains in for low lying areas and areas downstream of Nayavu station in the Wainibuka River, downstream of Ba FSC station in the Ba River, and downstream of Nairukuruku station in the Wainimala river.
Strong winds destroyed homes and crops, downed trees and power poles and caused considerable flooding since Friday, December 27.
A number of flights in Fiji have been canceled and evacuation centers opened for people seeking shelter, authorities said. In addition, a major tourist travel company has suspended cruise operations.
Nearly 2 000 people were evacuated on Friday and one person went missing after being swept away by floodwaters.
Authorities are uring locals and tourists not to be reckless.
Acting Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu said it was disappointing that some people had disregarded the weather warnings.
Tropical Cyclone "Sarai" at 15:10 UTC on December 28, 2019. Credit: JMA/Himawari-8, RAMMB/CIRA
At 15:00 UTC on December 28 (04:00 LT on December 29) the Navolau station was at 8.62 m (28.3 feet), which is 0.62 m (11.02 inches) above warning level AND decreasing. The Nayavu station was at 5.2 m (17.06 feet), which is 0.2 m (7.87 inches) above the alert level AND decreasing. The Korovou station was at 2.32 m (7.6 feet), which is 0.18 m (7.08 inches) below the alert level and decreasing. The Ba FSC was at 2.12 m (6.95 feet) which was 0.12 m (4.72 inches) above alert level and decreasing.
A Storm Warning remains in force for Vatulele, Kadavu, Matuku, Moala and Totoya. A Gale Warning remains in force for Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands, Yasawa and Mamanuca group, Viti Levu and nearby smaller islands, Lomaiviti and the rest of Lau group.
A Heavy Rain Warning remains in force for the Fiji group. A Flash Flood Warning remains in force for low lying areas, small streams and areas adjacent to major rivers in the Central, Northern and Western Division.
A Flood Warning remains in force for low lying areas and areas: adjacent to Korovou and Navua rivers, downstream of Ba FSC station in the Ba river, downstream of Nairukuruku station in the Wainimala River, downstream to Navolau station in the Rewa River, and downstream of Nayavu station in the Wainibuka river.
Sarai remains in a favorable environment with moderate vertical wind shear, warm sea surface temperature, and excellent poleward outflow.
Featured image: Tropical Cyclone "Sarai" at 15:10 UTC on December 28, 2019. Credit: JMA/Himawari-8, RAMMB/CIRA
If you value what we do here, create your ad-free account and support our journalism.
Your support makes a difference
Dear valued reader,
We hope that our website has been a valuable resource for you.
The reality is that it takes a lot of time, effort, and resources to maintain and grow this website. We rely on the support of readers like you to keep providing high-quality content.
If you have found our website to be helpful, please consider making a contribution to help us continue to bring you the information you need. Your support means the world to us and helps us to keep doing what we love.
Support us by choosing your support level – Silver, Gold or Platinum. Other support options include Patreon pledges and sending us a one-off payment using PayPal.
Thank you for your consideration. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Teo Blašković
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules:
We reserve the right to remove any comments that violate these rules. By commenting on our website, you agree to abide by these guidelines. Thank you for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.