Fijian authorities warn of the impact of coastal flooding on people’s lives, calling on residents to take heed and refrain from swimming, or undertaking any recreational marine activity until given the all-clear.
These after photos were widely shared on social media from the coastal areas of Sigatoka and in the outer islands including Lakeba, showing coastal waters rushing inland, and bringing with it debris in their path that is risky to people’s lives.
Warnings of coastal inundation and damaging heavy swell are still in force for coastal areas of Viti Levu including the southern coastal areas of the Mamanuca Group, Beqa, Kadavu, Vatulele, Moala Group, southern Lomaiviti Group, and the southern and central Lau.
Fiji’s National Disaster Management Office is advising people living in these areas that the warnings remain in force as hazardous breaking waves and strong currents are expected. Mariners are also advised to heed the advisories as current sea conditions can be dangerous for small boats due to large waves and rough seas.
Those needing assistance to evacuate can contact the Fiji Police Force and the National Fire Authority (NFA) on 917 and 910 respectively.
