Heavy Rain Floods 95% of Houses in Nolhivaram, Other Islands Affected

Torrential rain has caused widespread flooding across several islands in the Maldives, with Haa Dhaalu Atoll's Nolhivaram island the hardest hit. According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), 95 percent of houses in Nolhivaram have been inundated, leading to significant damage. Some families have been relocated to other homes. The Nolhivaram Council reported that efforts to drain floodwater by cutting open roads and using pumps in five areas have not been sufficient to reduce the standing water. The council has sought assistance from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). In neighbouring Nolhivarafaru, over 60 households reported flooding, with water entering homes and damaging belongings. Police and residents are filling sandbags to stem the flow, but no evacuations have been necessary, according to NDMA. Kulhudhuffushi City has been severely affected, with more than 190 houses reporting flood damage. The city council, police, MNDF Fire and Rescue Services and the Maldives Red Crescent (MRC) are working together to pump out water. In Lh. Naifaru, two houses reported flooding, and sandbagging and drainage work is underway. NDMA said it is coordinating with councils to assess the situation and provide humanitarian assistance as needed. The Maldives Meteorological Service has issued weather alerts: a Yellow alert from N. atoll to M. atoll valid until 7:00 pm today, and a White alert from H.A. atoll to V. atoll until 6:00 pm.