MNDF Urges Caution as Rough Seas and Heavy Rain Expected Across Maldives

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has urged sea travelers to exercise caution as weather conditions in the Maldives region are forecast to deteriorate over the coming days. The National Meteorological Centre reported that the western monsoon is strengthening, and two depressions in the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal are causing rain clouds to move over the atolls. Heavy rain is expected across various parts of the country for the next 24 hours, and for the next three days, strong winds and very rough seas are forecast for the northern and central atolls. MNDF's Fire and Rescue Service is already pumping water from the streets of Male' due to flooding. MNDF has issued a yellow alert from L. atoll to K. atoll, advising travelers to check the latest weather information before setting out, ensure life jackets and communication equipment are functioning, and avoid overloading cargo vessels. Additionally, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has advised the public to take precautions such as sandbagging doors to prevent water ingress, moving valuables to safe places, securing loose items that could be blown away, turning off unused electrical appliances, and preparing essential supplies.