The Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office) has issued a forecast for heavy rainfalls and strong winds over the weekends, urging to be cautious of the unfavourable severe weather conditions. The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has also cautioned against the heavily adverse weather conditions, advising residents to refrain from visiting uninhabited islands and going to the beaches.
The MET Office reports severe inclement weather conditions, especially in the northern and central region of the nation. It further anticipates an increase in sea levels, ranging between seven feet and ten feet. Winds will also be strong, ranging from 18 to 28 mph, and gusts between 45 and 50 mph are expected, along with gusts up to 60 mph within clouds and very rough seas as well.
Stressing that the northern and central regions of the country are expected to face particularly severe weather, the MET Office and MPS has advised seafarers to halt travelling unless it is vital. It additionally urges seafarers to take necessary safety precautions. Additionally, MPS also advised residents to refrain from visiting uninhabited islands, beaces and other coastal regions as well.
The orange alert, in effect from Haa Alif Atoll to Vaavu Atoll, forecasts heavy rains and winds between 34 and 40 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph within clouds and very rough seas. The alert was issued between 0800hrs and 1100hrs.