Fiji’s National Disaster Management Office Director Vasiti Soko today reiterated calls to the public to take heed of weather warnings and safety advisories in anticipation of tropical depression TD05F developing into a tropical cyclone over the next 24 hours.
The warning comes after two more people were reported missing at sea and 20 new cases of LTDD were recorded in the North.
The two, both women from Vatuwaqa were reported missing last night, bringing to four the number of people still to be accounted for – after two men of Cikobia were reported missing on Wednesday.
“Warnings are issued for a reason, to protect you. Please help us and adhere to these warnings,” Soko said.
In light of adverse weather brought on by TD05F, which is anticipated to develop into a category one system over the next 24 hours, authorities have also dismantled 82 tents from 26 schools in the North.
Twenty evacuation centres have also been opened – 19 in the North and one in the West – sheltering a total of 613 people. All maritime transport will be suspended from 6pm today until further notice.
“While the prevailing condition is anticipated to worsen in the coming days, it is critical that we use this time to prepare our families and our loved ones, and vulnerable members of the community. Ensure that emergency kits are ready.”
