Torrential rain over the past few days has forced many businesses in Nadi to close on Sunday, with some remaining shut today as wet weather conditions persist.
President of the Nadi Chamber of Commerce Lawrence Kumar says that while strong winds have begun to ease and rain appears to be gradually subsiding, safety must remain the top priority for both residents and business operators.
Kumar says that although the Nadi River had been rising and several low-lying creeks were flooded, the river did not burst its banks and floodwaters did not enter Nadi Town.
Kumar is urging Nadi business owners to carry out their own risk assessments before deciding to open.
He says it is important to assess whether it is feasible and viable to continue trading under the current conditions.
Kumar adds that some businesses had taken precautionary measures by relocating stock and goods to higher ground, above normal flood levels, to minimise potential losses.
While some vendors may have resumed operations depending on their individual assessments, Kumar believes many have opted to remain closed in light of safety concerns for employees and customers.
He reiterated that although Nadi Town has so far avoided direct flooding, continued vigilance is essential as unsettled weather conditions persist.
Meanwhile, a Flash Flood Warning remains in force for the whole of Viti Levu and a Flash Flood Alert is in force for the whole of Vanua Levu.
