6 Feb 2006

Flooded parts of Fiji readying for more rain, but weather office says only showers expected

5:00 pm on 6 February 2006

The Fiji Red Cross says more flooding could put pressure on evacuation centres set up after more heavy rain at the weekend claimed four lives.

The national disaster office says seven evacuation centres accommodating 224 people have been set up in northern Vanua Levu around Labasa.

The Fiji Red Cross disaster coordinator, Vuli Gauna, says the situation in the centres is satisfactory, but this could change, as more rain is expected.

But the Fiji met service's scientific officer, Diani Tupou says the worst of the weather has passed.

"That was a heavy downfall, because at that particular moment the convergence was very active in that area. But as it is right now it has moved further north of its position. We do not expect a lot of rain, but are expecting showers."