Heavy Rain Triggers Widespread Flooding in Northern Maldives

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has confirmed that heavy rain currently affecting the Maldives has caused severe flooding and damage across several islands in the north. The most heavily impacted areas are Haa Dhaalu and Haa Alifu atolls, along with parts of Lhaviyani Atoll. The worst-hit island is Nolhivaram in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, where 95% of houses have been flooded, damaging belongings and forcing some families to relocate. Although efforts to pump out water from five sections are underway, the floodwaters have not yet been brought under control. The island council has formally requested assistance from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). In Kulhudhuffushi City, over 190 households have reported flooding. The council, alongside police, MNDF Fire and Rescue Service, and the Maldives Red Crescent, is working to drain water from the area. Nolhivaranfaru (Haa Dhaalu) has also seen more than 60 homes flooded, with many experiencing water rising from the ground. Residents and police are placing sandbags to hold back the water. In Haa Alifu Atoll, damage has been reported in Thakandhoo, prompting the government to deploy an MNDF Northern Command team to assist. In Naifaru (Lhaviyani Atoll), two homes have been affected by floodwater, but no evacuations have been required. According to the national meteorological service, the highest rainfall in the past 24 hours was recorded in Kulhudhuffushi City with 188.3 mm, followed by Hanimaadhoo (Haa Dhaalu) with 125.7 mm. The NDMA said it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with island councils to ensure humanitarian assistance reaches those in need.