PUBLIC around Western province have been advised to take extra precautionary measures and to remain alert in light of the current bad weather situation in the province.

This is confirmed by the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service when contacted yesterday, that public must take extra care as the wet season will continue in the coming weeks.

A spokesperson from the division said people must take extra precaution when traveling out at sea.

“All Heavy Rain Alerts is now upgraded to Heavy Rain Warning. A Heavy Rain Warning is enforce for all Provinces.”

He explained that a trough lies over Solomon Islands and links to a slow moving tropical Low south of Western Province.

He said associated heavy rain is expected to affect the Solomon Islands within the next 24 hours.

Therefore, heavy rain may lead to flash flooding or flooding over communities living close to large rivers, streams and low lying areas.

He said public are also advised to use extreme caution when travelling in these areas, sea and look for safe places and think safety first before traveling to other Islands.

“Do not attempt to cross rivers and large streams of unknown depth People are therefore advised to take precautionary measures because of flooding that will pose danger to lives and properties.”

Meanwhile, the continuous heavy rainfall has caused inconvenience to the public living in the Western Provincial capital Gizo, following the worsened state of the two main access roads leading up to the Top hill areas.

Low lying areas in the town are also affected by heavy rain causing water to seep into homes and shops due to lack of proper drainage systems within Gizo town.