MET Office Issues Orange Alert as Torrential Rain Causes Severe Flooding

The Maldives Meteorological Service (MMS) has issued an orange alert for the central Maldives today, following heavy rainfall that has inundated the streets of the capital, Male’ City. 

https://x.com/MetMaldives/status/1823283036282331644

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The downpour, which began early in the morning, has caused significant damage to vehicles and resulted in floodwaters entering homes. In response to the worsening conditions, the MMS upgraded the weather alert for the central Maldives from yellow to orange, warning of intense rainfall and thunderstorms likely to cause further flooding in the area spanning from K. Atoll to ADh. Atoll. This alert is in effect from 2:15 pm to 6:15 pm on Tuesday.

The continuous rainfall has led to widespread flooding in Male’, prompting the deployment of police and military personnel to assist with dewatering efforts. Authorities are also placing sandbags at the entrances of homes to prevent further water ingress. Reports of flooding have emerged from multiple islands across the country, with some residents being evacuated to safer locations.

The adverse weather conditions are attributed to an active Southwest Monsoon, locally known as the Hulhuangu Monsoon. According to the MMS, HA. Kelaa experienced a record-breaking 231.5 millimetres of rainfall on Monday, while HDh. Hanimaadhoo recorded 177.5 millimetres, R. Irufu 102 millimetres, HDh. Kulhudhuffushi 77.8 millimetres, and K. Kaashidhoo 69.6 millimetres. F. Nilandhoo also reported maximum gusts of 45 miles per hour.

The MMS has advised caution, particularly for those at sea, urging everyone to take necessary safety precautions.