Tropical cyclone Lusi expected to affect Fiji

The Fiji Meteorological Services on Tuesday said a tropical cyclone alert is in force for parts of the country as tropical cyclone Lusi is moving closer to Fiji. The alert is in force for the western half of Viti Levu -- Fiji 's main island, as well as several other outer islands, the Fiji Meteorological Services said, adding that the tropical cyclone " currently does not pose any direct threat to Fiji." Authorities are advising those living in these areas including coastal communities to continue monitoring weather reports and to make the necessary preparations. Mariners are also advised to monitor weather reports and to secure vessels. The same weather report indicates that conditions could intensify in the next 24 to 48 hours and is likely to produce heavy rainfall and strong winds, which is likely to cause flash flooding in some areas, said the Ministry of Information. Tropical cyclone Lusi, a category two cyclone which is still intensifying, is expected to become a hurricane as it moved closer to Fiji, local news website Fijivillage.com reported