Authorities urge precautionary measures to minimize potential damage as weather conditions deteriorate, bringing heavy rain and thunderstorms
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has urged the public to take safety precautions and avoid using electrical appliances during thunderstorms as severe weather, including heavy rain and strong winds, is expected across the Maldives. With the Meteorological Service forecasting above-average rainfall through September and wind speeds potentially reaching 40 mph during squalls, authorities have advised everyone to remain vigilant against potential flooding and wind damage while warning of rough seas.
Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate across the entire Maldives over the next 24 hours. Authorities have urged everyone to remain vigilant and exercise caution. | Raajjemv graphics
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has urged the public to take precautionary measures and prepare for potential damages as weather conditions deteriorate across the Maldives, bringing frequent lightning and thunderstorms.
The Maldives Meteorological Service has announced that widespread rain and thunderstorms are expected across much of the country from 10:00 a.m. Monday to 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, with heavy downpours likely in some islands.
The agency stated that winds are expected to blow from the southwest and west at speeds between 8 and 18 mph, with gusts potentially reaching approximately 40 mph during showers. The Maldives Meteorological Service further noted that seas are expected to be moderate but will become rough during squalls, with wave heights ranging between 3 and 5 feet.
The Maldives Meteorological Service has stated that rainfall across most parts of the country is expected to be higher than average from June to September 2026. The office further noted that temperatures in all regions are projected to remain above normal levels during this period.
Heavy rainfall has continued across various regions over the past 24 hours, with Seenu Atoll Hithadhoo recording the highest precipitation between 8:00 AM Sunday and 8:00 AM Monday. According to data released by the Maldives Meteorological Service, Hithadhoo received 46.1 mm of rain during this period. The statistics further reveal significant rainfall in other areas, including 32.4 mm in Seenu Atoll Hulhumeedhoo, 33.0 mm in Faafu Atoll Bilehdhoo, 26.5 mm in Kaafu Atoll Dhiffushi, 22.6 mm in Meemu Atoll Muli, and 19.5 mm in Gnaviyani Atoll Fuvahmulah.
Furthermore, as weather conditions deteriorate with thunderstorms across the Maldives, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has urged the public to take precautionary measures and prepare in advance to minimize potential damages.
The authority advised the public to stay indoors and avoid open areas or elevated spaces such as terraces. Those outdoors are urged not to seek shelter under trees or near tall structures during the rain. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) also recommended unplugging and refraining from using electronic devices. Additionally, the public is cautioned to stay away from flooded areas, wet objects, and metal structures.
The onset of the southwest monsoon consistently brings varying degrees of damage to the capital, Malé City, and islands across the atolls. Heavy rainfall frequently leads to widespread flooding, causing water to surge into households and damage property. Additionally, strong winds often trigger dangerous incidents such as uprooted trees and roofs being blown off buildings. The severe weather conditions also contribute to a significant rise in maritime incidents across the country.
Consequently, all relevant authorities have urged the public to exercise special caution and remain vigilant regarding the prevailing weather conditions.
