The yellow alert issued over the regions between Haa Alif atoll and Meemu atoll, has been extended.

The Maldives Meteorological Service (MET) initially issued the yellow alert over the region, after predicting torrential rain showers and thunderstorms to prevail over the region, along with choppy seas.

An advisory issued by the department on Thursday afternoon stated that the alert is in effect from 1pm to 5pm, however, it has since been extended till 9pm.

MET has also predicted average strong winds of 25 – 30 miles per hour over the region with winds gusting up to 55 miles per hour.

MET has predicted seas to be generally rough throughout the entirety of Maldives.

From 10am Thursday to 10am Friday, winds are expected to gust southwest to westerly at 15 – 25 miles per hour and may increase between 45 – 55 miles per hour during squally showers.

Generally, fairly widespread rain showers with a few heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected over the entire country and showers are expected to be heavy at times.

The department urged individuals to be cautious of the adverse weather conditions and strong monsoon activities as swell wave surges have also been predicted during high tide times.