Two Cyclones Near Maldives Expected to Worsen Weather Over Next 24 Hours

The Maldives Meteorological Service has warned that two cyclones forming in the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal will bring worsening weather across the country over the next 24 hours. Heavy rain is expected nationwide, with strong winds and rough seas likely in the northern and central atolls for the next three days. In response, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has urged sea travelers to exercise extreme caution. The MNDF advised checking life jackets, communication systems and pumps before departure, avoiding overloading vessels, and ensuring cargo is properly secured. Travelers were also told to heed any green or orange alerts from the Meteorological Service and to postpone non-essential sea journeys. Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) called on the public to prepare for potential impacts. Residents in flood-prone areas were advised to move valuables and livestock to higher ground, secure loose items that could be blown away, and unplug unused electrical equipment. The NDMA also recommended stocking up on essential supplies and always checking the latest weather information from official sources before travelling.