EARLY cyclone warning systems for Fiji and the Region is to be improved significantly following the expected implementation of a Meteorology Act, next year.
The Ministry of Tourism and Transport has already confirmed that it has presented its submissions to the Solicitor General's Office on requirements for the formulation of a Meteorology Act.
In a statement released yesterday, the Ministry also revealed that more than $700,000 had already been allocated in next year's budget for two major projects that would completely transform weather management in Fiji.
The Ministry's statement said that $500,000 has been allocated for the installation of a new weather radar in the Northern Division and $243,000 for a Fiji Integrated Meteorological System (FIMS).
Director of the Meteorological Office in Nadi, Rajendra Prasad, said the department was very grateful for the announcement.
Mr Prasad said both projects would greatly enhance Fiji's capabilities with regards to the tracking and warning of cyclones.
Mr Prasad said the systems would give people more time to prepare themselves for major disasters.
"A weather radar in Vanua Levu will allow tropical cyclones and other severe weather systems approaching the country from the north to be detected well in advance and tracked with much greater precision that at present."
"This would greatly enhance the early warning system."
"In addition, the weather radar in Vanua Levu will not only benefit the people of Fiji but also nearby countries like Tonga through improved tracking and warning of impending weather phenomenon and use of information for subsequent research and development work," he said.
Mr Prasad said they had already purchased the equipment for the weather radar in the North and it was being stored in Melbourne, Australia.
He said once the Act was legislated and funds handed over to the Department, the equipment would be transported to Fiji for installation.
He said the funds allocated for the new radar in Vanua Levu next year covers installation costs.
