The Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office) has issued overlapping white and yellow weather alerts across multiple atolls today as the southwest (Hulhangu) monsoon continues to strengthen, bringing intensified winds, heavy rainfall, and rough seas.
A white alert was first activated from 07:00 to 11:00 for Laamu Atoll through Addu City, warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms, gusts up to 40 mph, and rough marine conditions . This notification was extended from 11:00 to 17:00 for Dhaalu Atoll through Addu City, adding sustained winds of 19–24 mph, gusts reaching 45 mph, and continued rough seas.
Concurrently, a yellow alert took effect at 09:30, covering Haa Alifu to Faafu Atolls until 13:30. Communities in these regions can expect sustained winds between 25–30 mph, gusts up to 50 mph, and very rough seas—with atoll passes facing the most severe conditions.
These warnings align with forecasts that the southwest monsoon will continue to intensify over the next three days, bringing widespread rain, frequent thunderstorms, stronger gusty winds, turbulent sea states, and potential tidal surges during high tides.
Key Impacts & Safety Measures
- Coastal and island communities should be alert to flooding, coastal erosion, and wave overtopping.
- Boaters, fishermen, and maritime operators are strongly advised to stay ashore and monitor advisories before venturing out.
- Ferry and seaplane services across northern, central, and southern atolls may encounter delays or cancellations.
- Residents should ensure lifejackets, pumps, and communication devices are ready and operational.
With the monsoon season running from May to November and typically peaking in July, meteorologists expect several days of unsettled weather before conditions gradually ease with the onset of the northeast (Iruvai) monsoon later in the season.
Converging white and yellow alerts across central, southern, and northern–central atolls signal a period of heightened weather volatility. Residents, visitors, and marine users across affected atolls must stay informed via official bulletins from the Met Office and National Disaster Management Authority, avoid non-essential marine travel, and take all necessary precautions during this monsoon surge.
