The Samoa Meteorological Office (M.E.T.) is forecasting heavy rainfall this week and has issued a warning to alert residents living within the vicinity of major rivers and low-lying areas to exercise caution.

Apia is already experiencing heavy rainfall since last weekend.

M.E.T. Assistant Chief Executive Officer, Mulipola Ausetalia Titimaea, said there is a low pressure system north of Fiji resulting in this weather.

“This system is expected to linger within the islands' vicinity, prolonging these situations to occur and the South Pacific convergence zone will fluctuate over the islands, hence more intense rainfall is expected for tomorrow,” he said, in response to questions by the Samoa Observer. 

“The materialisation of a low pressure system over to the north of the Fiji Islands will make way for the emergence of a convergence zone which will make way for more rainfall activity for this whole week.”

The heavy rainfall forecast to start from Tuesday to Wednesday this week, before easing on Thursday with showers, and remain in the forecast but less severe than the beginning of the week. 

The weather can create poor visibility, gusty winds, foggy and slippery roads over mountain passes and ranges with pooling on roadsides and waterways. 

The public has been asked to stay alert and note the heavy rainfall forecasts and its potential impact.