HEAVY rainfall in the Northern Division yesterday caused flash floods around the area, flooding bridges and part of the main street in Labasa Town.
The Boubale bridge and Boca Rd in Bulikea outside Labasa Town were also under water, resulting in commuters being stranded on either side of the bridge.
The front of ANZ Bank in town was also under water and workers from the Labasa Town Council cleared the water by using a pump.
Passengers to Vunicuicui and Kilikoso outside Labasa Town were stranded last evening as floodwaters remained high.
Divisional Planning Officer North Alipate Bolalevu said the floods were easily swept in by the high tide around noon.
"We have received reports of a few areas being flooded and a few bridges as well," he said.
"We are continuing to monitor the weather situation in Vanua Levu and keeping in touch with our teams in other stations of the North.
"Our team is still working round-the-clock in ensuring that everyone is safe from the floods.
"All emergency departments are part of this team and we are working closely with the weather office in monitoring the situation.
"Continuous visit to flood-prone areas are being done by the team and we are advising members of the public living in low-lying areas to listen to the weather bulletin on radio stations and act accordingly."
Mr Bolalevu also urged parents to keep their children indoors and ensure they do not play in floodwaters.
A strong wind warning remains for Vanua Levu, Taveuni and nearby smaller islands, Yasawa, Lomaiviti and Northern Viti Levu.
A heavy rain warning remains in force for the whole of Fiji Group. A low pressure system lies to the south of Fiji and is expected to move southeastward. Associated active trough of low pressure with associated cloud and rain continues to affect the group.