In response to the forecast of severe weather, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has established a national task force comprising the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), Maldives Police Service (MPS), and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to mitigate the impact of potential weather-related disasters.
The Maldives Meteorological Service (MET Office) reported gathering storm clouds over Malé early Monday, accompanied by intermittent rain. The weather is expected to worsen after sunset, with heavy rainfall continuing through Tuesday morning due to a cyclone currently moving west of the Maldives from the Bay of Bengal.
During a press conference held by the task force, Chief of Defense Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy announced that a joint operations center has been set up at the MNDF headquarters in Bandaara Koshi to coordinate efforts. Hilmy assured that MNDF personnel are prepared to assist residents in managing potential damage, including placing sandbags in vulnerable areas and operating pump stations to manage flooding.
“There are regional command centers covering four regions across the country. Sandbags will be available at three locations in Malé to help residents protect their homes,” Hilmy explained.
Commissioner of Police Ali Shujau emphasized that police units in both Malé and the atolls are also on standby to assist residents during the bad weather. He noted that provisions have been made to assist islands without established police posts.
Shujau urged the public to cooperate with safety measures, particularly the restriction of vehicle movement in flooded areas. “We are closing off flooded roads to minimize damage. It is crucial that the public adheres to police instructions,” he said.
Chief Executive of NDMA Hisan Hassan detailed the agency’s emergency preparations, noting that their operations center has been activated. He added that more than 57 homes at risk of flooding have already been reinforced with sandbags, and efforts to fortify additional homes are ongoing.
Hisan also advised residents to take precautionary measures, including safeguarding valuables, parking motorcycles in safe areas, and protecting agricultural fields from potential water damage.
“It is important for small businesses, restaurants, and cafés to secure their belongings and prepare for strong winds and wave surges,” he emphasized.
The MET Office has issued an alert, urging the public to take immediate precautions as heavy rains and strong winds approach. The government’s coordinated efforts aim to minimize the potential destruction caused by the severe weather and ensure public safety across the nation.
