Heavy Rains Cause Severe Flooding in Maldives Atolls; Over 140 Displaced in Kulhudhuffushi

The Maldives National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has reported severe damage across multiple atolls due to ongoing heavy rains. The worst-hit area is Kulhudhuffushi City in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, where flooding in 18 homes forced the temporary evacuation of over 140 people to two schools. Seven pumps are being used to drain water there. In Nolhivaram, 95% of homes were flooded, prompting residents to move to other houses with police assistance and one pump deployed. In Naifaru, Lhaviyani Atoll, water entered 16 homes, with two houses evacuated. Other islands affected include Nellaidhoo (10 homes flooded but no evacuations), Kumundhoo (three homes damaged with food supplies ruined), and Vaikaradhoo (farmland flooded but no homes damaged). In Haa Alif Atoll, flooding in Filladhoo, Kela, and Marandhoo was relieved by cutting channels to the sea. Kela and Marandhoo each had one home flooded with minor damage. In Dhidhdhoo, sandbags were placed as a precaution, and one home reported water intrusion. In Thakandhoo, wells were being dug and assessments conducted for Wednesday night's flood damage. In Baa Atoll, islands including Baarah, Horafushi, Molidhoo, Muraidhoo, Uligan, Utheemu, and Vashafaru had waterlogged roads but no home damage. The NDMA noted that overall conditions on those islands are stable. Police are assisting in relief efforts across Haa Dhaalu, Noonu, Baa, and Lhaviyani atolls, working with councils and other agencies to provide food and temporary shelter for those affected.