The India Meteorological Department has issued a maritime safety warning for the Maldives, cautioning that strong winds and rough to very rough sea conditions are expected to persist in waters surrounding the country until 30 November, due to the intensifying Cyclonic Storm Ditwah near Sri Lanka.
Cyclone Ditwah strengthening in Bay of Bengal
The storm, which formed from a deep depression near the Sri Lankan coast, has now intensified into Cyclonic Storm Ditwah, packing winds of 60 to 70 kmph, gusting to 80 kmph, as of Thursday afternoon. It was located close to Sri Lanka’s eastern coastline, continuing to move north-northwest toward southern India.
Forecast models show further strengthening, with maximum winds potentially reaching 80 to 90 kmph, gusting to 100 kmph by 29 November.
Squally winds near Maldives
Mariners are warned of 40 to 50 kmph winds, gusting to 60 kmph across the Southeast Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep region, and Maldives waters from 27 to 29 November.
These conditions are expected to create elevated wave activity across northern and central atolls, affecting:
- Fishing boats
- Speedboat transfers
- Inter-atoll cargo and passenger transport
Marine safety caution in force
The IMD explicitly advises fishermen not to venture into:
- Maldives and adjoining Kerala-coast waters until 30 November
Any local vessels currently offshore are urged to return to safe harbor and reassess travel plans.
Visibility and travel risks
Strong winds combined with ocean spray may reduce visibility over open waters. The IMD notes that squalls could intensify further depending on the track of Cyclone Ditwah.
Tourist vessels and dive safari operators are advised to monitor official alerts closely and delay long-distance sea crossings.
Storm track monitored closely
Satellite imagery highlights a clear cyclonic band circulating south of India and Sri Lanka, while the remnant depression of Cyclone Senyar remains far to the east near Indonesia and poses no threat to Maldives.
The IMD says Ditwah will remain the system of greatest concern through the weekend.
No direct rainfall or land impact expected
Current projections do not suggest land-based hazards for the Maldives, although indirect marine impacts may escalate if the storm shifts westward.
Authorities and citizens are encouraged to keep up to date with forecasts issued by the Maldives Meteorological Service.
