Rain to persist across Maldives, easing after Friday

The Maldives Meteorological Service has forecast continued rainfall across parts of the country this week, with conditions expected to gradually improve after Friday.

Rain has been affecting various regions since last week, and the Met Office says the current weather models suggest the wet spell will persist for several more days. Winds are expected to range between 10 to 25 mph, with stronger gusts in the central and southern atolls.

“As the models are showing now, it’s going to be [bad] for a week. It’s going to get a little better after [next] Friday,” the Met Office said.

For the next 24 hours, winds are forecast to reach 15 to 25 mph in the central and southern atolls, and up to 23 mph in the north. Sea conditions are expected to be moderate to heavy, with wave heights between four and seven feet.

The Met Office has issued repeated advisories urging seafarers to remain cautious, especially in light of two recent marine accidents linked to rough weather:

• On Wednesday, October 15, a ferry capsized near K. Thulhaagiri, killing one Maldivian and two foreign nationals. The vessel, Almaak Fiya, was en route from Male' to K. Eriyadhoo when it overturned. Four crew members were rescued, one was found dead, and one remains missing.
• On Thursday, October 16, the cargo vessel Nasr sank 3.3 nautical miles south of Alhigaa while traveling from Male' to Naifaru. All five crew members were rescued by the MNDF and taken to Naifaru Hospital.

Authorities continue to advise vessels to avoid night travel, ensure safety equipment is onboard, and monitor weather alerts closely.