Orange alert warning of heavy rain, floods extended until 23:00pm

Maldives Metrological Service (Met Office) has extended the orange alert issued earlier for central Maldivian atolls warning of torrential rain and thunderstorms with possible flooding.

The weather forecasting body had earlier issued an orange alert from Baa Atoll to Thaa Atoll to be in effect from 15:00pm to 19:00pm on Friday. The alert warning of torrential rain and thunderstorms with possible flooding has now been extended until 23:00pm tonight.

The severe conditions have been attributed to the transition between two monsoons. While the beginning of the northeast monsoon was declared on Thursday, the northeast monsoon had commenced later than usual this year.

Met Office has forecasted rough seas, with waves of five to eight feet.

It has also warned of the possibility of swell waves in some islands during high tides. As such, the authority has urged the public to take precautionary measures.

Notably, Maldivian capital Male’ has been severely flooded following nonstop rain on Friday evening. While floods have intruded homes and shops causing significant damage, some vehicles parked on roads have also fallen on the road due to strong winds.

Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF)’s Fire and Rescue Service is undertaking efforts to drain the floods. In this regard, 11 pumps have been placed across three areas in Male’ City. Efforts are also being undertaken in collaboration with Male’ City Council to place sandbags in areas that are prone to flooding.

Islands have also reported significant damage following flooding caused by heavy rain and swell waves. MNDF is also active in these islands to minimize damage.

They include K. Maafushi, K. Guraidhoo, Dh. Kudahuvadhoo, Dh. Meedhoo, ADh. Maamigili, Sh. Narudhoo and F. Nilandhoo.