PUBLIC WEATHER & HEALTH ADVISORY: PROLONGED HOT & HUMID CONDITIONS ACROSS FIJI

PUBLIC ADVISORY # 10 | 09 February 2026.

As hot, humid, and wet weather is forecasted for the Fiji Group over the next few months, this advisory provides essential information on current conditions and proactive measures to protect your health and safety.

The combination of high heat and humidity significantly increases the risk of heat-related illnesses and other health concerns.

People most at Risk where extra care should be taken

  1. Babies and young children.
  2. Pregnant women
  3. Elderly people
  4. People with heart, lung or chronic medical illnesses.
  5. People working or exercising outdoors like farmers, construction workers and school children.

Know the Signs: Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke

Immediate recognition and response are critical.

Heat Exhaustion (Act Immediately)

  1. Signs: Heavy sweating; weakness or dizziness; cold, pale, clammy skin; fast, weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps.
  2. Action: Move to a cool place. Loosen clothing. Sip water slowly. Use cool, wet cloths on the body. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.

Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency – Call for Help!)

  1. Signs: High body temperature (39.4°C /103°F or higher); hot, red, dry, or damp skin; rapid, strong pulse; confusion; unconsciousness.
  2. Action: Call emergency services on 911 immediately. Move the person to a cooler place. Use cool cloths or a cool bath to lower the temperature. Do not give them anything to drink.

How to protect yourself

  1. Drink water often: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and too much coffee/caffeine, which causes dehydration. During extreme heat exposure, drink about 1 litre of water every 2 hours.
  2. Avoid the midday Sun. Limit outdoor activity, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.).
  3. Keep Cool: Use fans or air conditioning. Take cool showers.
  4. Dress for the weather: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
  5. Never Leave Anyone in a Parked car: Car interiors can become lethal ovens within minutes.

Advice For Parents & Guardians

  1. Extra Vigilance: Check children regularly for signs of overheating, as they may not recognise the symptoms in themselves.
  2. Schedule: Plan outdoor play for early morning or late afternoon.
  3. Hydration Reminders: Encourage children to drink water regularly.

Sun & Insect Protection

  1. Use Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 35+) generously and reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days. Protect lips, ears, and feet.
  2. Prevent Bug Bites: Use insect repellent (containing DEET is recommended).
  3. Eliminate Breeding Sites: Regularly empty, clean, or cover containers that hold standing water around your home to disrupt mosquito breeding.

During Thunderstorms & Heavy Rain

  1. Seek proper shelter
  2. Do not walk or drive through floodwater
  3. Stay Informed: Follow official weather updates and advisories from the Fiji Meteorological Service.

Important Contacts

  1. Emergency Services: 911
  2. Fiji Meteorological Service: Follow for official forecasts and warnings.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay informed. By taking these proactive steps, we can all stay safe and healthy during this prolonged period of hot and humid weather.

This advisory is based on information from the Fiji Meteorological Service and global health authorities. Conditions may change; please follow the latest official updates.

ENDS.