The Maldives Meteorological Service has warned that adverse weather conditions will persist across the country for the next three days, as the Northeast Monsoon establishes itself over the region.
According to the MET Office, widespread rain and thunderstorms are expected across the Maldives within the next 24 hours, with some islands in the central and southern atolls likely to experience periods of heavy rainfall. The unsettled conditions are directly linked to the seasonal monsoon transition, which typically brings stronger winds, rougher seas, and intermittent downpours during this time of year.
Forecasts indicate that wind speeds in the southern atolls will range between 5 and 15 miles per hour, blowing from northerly to northeasterly directions. Elsewhere, winds are expected to be stronger, reaching between 10 and 20 miles per hour from the northeasterly to easterly directions. During squalls, wind gusts could intensify significantly, reaching speeds of up to 40 miles per hour.
Sea conditions are also expected to deteriorate. The MET Office reports moderate seas in the southern atolls, while central and northern regions are forecast to experience moderately rough conditions. During squalls, seas across the country may become very rough. Wave heights are projected at 2 to 5 feet in the southern atolls and 3 to 6 feet in the central and northern atolls.
Meteorologists have indicated that weather conditions are likely to improve gradually in the northern and central atolls starting from Monday. Until then, authorities are urging fishermen, ferry operators, and all seafarers to exercise extreme caution, particularly during periods of strong winds and rough seas, as the monsoon-driven system continues to affect the Maldives.
