SUVA, Fiji (17th November 2025): The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Fiji is urging all road users to remain vigilant as severe weather conditions including heavy rainfall and flash flooding continue to affect many parts of the country, especially as we are in the cyclone season.
LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa said the ongoing intense weather is significantly increasing road safety risks and the Authority is calling on all road users to exercise extreme caution when travelling.
“With intense rainfall and potential flooding affecting many parts of the country, we urge all road users to remain vigilant.
“The combination of heavy rain reduced visibility, and flooded roads can create hazardous conditions. It is essential that all road users—motorists, passengers and pedestrians prioritises their safety at all times,” he said.
Mr Rokosawa said that unnecessary travel should be avoided, particularly in flood-prone areas.
“If you must travel, ensure you are up to date with weather warnings and road closures. Stay alert for changing conditions, be prepared for sudden detours, and remain cautious of potential hazards such as fallen debris, washed-out roads, and limited visibility,” he said.
“Parents must also take heed of their children’s safety, especially when they are walking to school, waiting for transportation, or moving around areas impacted by heavy rain.
“Children are particularly vulnerable during severe weather, and parents and guardians must ensure they are supervised and kept away from flooded or high-risk areas,” he said.
Mr Rokosawa also reminded Public Service Vehicle (PSV) drivers and operators of their crucial responsibility to uphold the highest standards of safety.
“PSV drivers must ensure the safety of passengers at all times, especially during adverse weather.
“This includes avoiding overloading, driving within speed limits, making safe stops, and ensuring passengers—particularly schoolchildren—are picked up and dropped off in safe locations. PSVs carry lives, and this responsibility must never be taken lightly,” he said.
He added that it is concerning that some drivers continue to ignore the dangers by speeding or driving recklessly despite the adverse conditions.
“The Authority will not hesitate to take action against offenders who disregard traffic laws and public safety, ensuring penalties are imposed to deter dangerous behaviour and protect all road users.”
He emphasized that all drivers must strictly follow speed limits, adjust their driving to suit the weather, use headlights during heavy rain or poor visibility, maintain safe following distances, avoid overtaking unless it is absolutely safe, and plan their journeys knowing weather-related delays may occur.
Mr Rokosawa said the Authority remains committed to prioritising public safety as adverse weather continues.
“It is absolutely essential that everyone respects road closures and warning signs, especially in areas where flooding has occurred. Floodwaters can be deceptively powerful, and even a small amount of moving water can sweep a vehicle off the road.
“If you come across a flooded road, turn around immediately and find an alternative route. It is never worth risking your life or the lives of others.”
“These measures are in place for the safety of all road users, and ignoring them can lead to serious consequences,” he said.
The CEO said that the Authority is working closely with the Fiji Police Force, Fiji Roads Authority and other key stakeholders to monitor road conditions and enforce safety measures.
“Public safety remains our top priority, and we are strengthening our emergency response capabilities. We encourage everyone especially families to stay informed by following reliable weather updates and local news for real-time information on road conditions.”
“The safety of you and your loved ones depends on your actions. Let us all do our part to stay safe and minimise risks on our roads during this challenging period,” he said.
Road users are encouraged to stay updated on the latest road closures, weather advisories, and safety information, and to adhere to instructions from relevant authorities.
