Police Urge Caution as Severe Weather Forecast for Republic Day Holiday

As the Maldives prepares for a school and office holiday period, including Republic Day and a subsequent government holiday, the police have issued an appeal for the public to exercise caution due to adverse weather conditions expected across the country. The warning aims to reduce accidents and ensure the safety of families during the upcoming break. In a statement, police highlighted that even short, routine journeys can become dangerous when heavy rain falls, roads flood, and water levels rise. They reminded the public that a normal day can turn hazardous within minutes if weather conditions are ignored, particularly when going out to sea. According to the Meteorological Office, the intensification of the west monsoon will bring rainfall to most parts of the country over the next 24 hours, accompanied by rough seas and strong winds, with occasional heavy rain. The Met Office stressed the importance of citizens and tourists paying attention to upcoming weather changes, as some islands are likely to experience heavy rain and flooding. Noting that many families will travel and spend time together during the holiday, police urged that taking precautions is always beneficial for the safety of loved ones. The advisory particularly addressed motorcyclists, noting that motorcycles are the most common means of transport for many Maldivians. Normally traveled routes can become dangerous during heavy rain, and flooded roads increase the risk of accidents. Submerged rocks hidden under rising water pose additional dangers, and even minor incidents could result in serious injuries. Police appealed for caution while traveling on flooded roads, advising against attempting to travel if the depth of the water and the condition of the road underneath are unknown, or to exercise extra care if travel is necessary.