Bad weather expected over next 24 hours; seas in central and northern atolls to be very rough: MMS
MMS has forecasted heavy rainfall and strong winds across the country, with rough seas expected in central and northern atolls. Wind speeds are projected to reach 40 mph during squalls, with wave heights rising to seven feet; notably, Gaafu Alif Gemanafushi recorded the highest rainfall over the past 24 hours. The severe weather has caused significant flooding on the streets of Malé, prompting the Maldives National Defence Force to mobilize for water drainage operations.
Weather Update: Heavy rain currently affecting Malé. | RaajjeMV
The Maldives Meteorological Service (MMS) has warned of deteriorating weather conditions, forecasting rough seas across the central and northern atolls.
MMS has announced that widespread rain is expected across the Maldives from 10:00 AM Friday to 10:00 AM Saturday, with heavy showers and thunderstorms likely in some islands.
MMS has stated that winds are expected to blow from the south and southwest at speeds between 8 and 18 mph in the southern atolls. In other regions, winds will prevail from the southwest and west at speeds of 13 to 23 mph. The Maldives Meteorological Service further warned that wind speeds could gust up to 40 mph during squalls.
Furthermore, the Maldives Meteorological Service stated that seas in the central and northern atolls are expected to be rough, with wave heights ranging between 4 and 7 feet. Meanwhile, seas in the south are forecasted to be moderate but may become rough during squalls, with wave heights expected to reach between 3 and 5 feet.
MMS has reported that GA. Gemanafushi recorded the highest rainfall between 8:00 AM Thursday and 8:00 AM Friday, as deteriorating weather conditions continue to cause damage across several islands. According to official statistics, Gemanafushi received 115 millimeters of rain. Other significant recordings include 27.7 millimeters in GDh. Faresmaathodaa, 25.9 millimeters in AA. Thoddoo, and 20.8 millimeters in K. Gaafaru.
Furthermore, heavy rainfall on Friday led to significant flooding across Male' City. As water levels rose on the streets, the MNDF Fire and Rescue Service was deployed to carry out dewatering operations.
Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution and remain vigilant as weather conditions across the Maldives continue to deteriorate.
