There is some good news today as Tropical Cyclone Ella is gradually weakening as it moves towards Fiji.
Nadi Weather Office Forecaster, Stephen Meke says Category 2 Cyclone Ella may even weaken to a category 1 system by the time the centre passes to the North of Vanua Levu later today.
A strong wind warning remains in force for Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands, Lau and Lomaiviti group and the Eastern part of Viti Levu.
Cyclone Ella was located 325 kilometres East North East of Udu Point earlier this morning.
The Weather Office says Cyclone Ella is currently moving west at about 5 kilometres per hour and currently has average winds of 95 kilometres per hour and momentary gusts to 130 kilometres per hour.
On this track the cyclone is expected to be located about 100 kilometres North East of Cikobia in the Northern division later tonight.
For Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands expect strong southeast winds with average speeds of 45 kilometres per hour which is expected to increase further to damaging gale forces winds of 85 kilometres per hour from tonight.
People living in Lau and Lomaiviti group and the interior parts of Viti Levu should expect strong winds.
Nadi Weather Office Forecaster, Stephen Meke says the people living in the Northern part of Vanua Levu should still be prepared for very strong winds and heavy rain tonight into tomorrow.
If the system weakens, then the rain bands will not cover other parts of the country.
