Fiji's sugarcane farmers should prepare for a worst-case scenario, as the crop could be severely impacted by the El Nino phenomenon, Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry Tomasi Tunabuna said on Wednesday.

Forecast models indicate a 97 percent probability that El Nino will persist until early spring next year, according to Fiji Broadcasting Corporation.

Tunabuna said changing weather patterns and water availability could affect agricultural productivity, particularly for commercial crops.

Sugarcane is more vulnerable because of the intensity of its production, while rice and cassava crops could also be affected, the minister noted.

Tunabuna emphasized that sustainable water management is crucial to helping farmers maintain production amid changing climatic conditions.

He said the government is encouraging farmers to use water sustainably as irrigation costs may rise in certain areas.