Starting tomorrow, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has called for precautionary steps to mitigate potential damage, following predictions from the Maldives Meteorological Service forecasting widespread rain across the country. The Met Office has announced that from tomorrow through Saturday, extensive areas of the Maldives will experience rain and adverse weather conditions. Some islands are expected to endure heavy rainfall and turbulent seas, with a risk of tidal waves particularly affecting islands in the northern and central atolls.
To prepare and reduce possible harm, NDMA has shared a list of recommended actions, including:
– Monitoring potential flooding and placing sandbags at doorsteps to prevent water intrusion into homes
– Avoiding parking motorcycles and similar vehicles in flood-susceptible zones
– Implementing early measures to safeguard shops, restaurants, warehouses, and other locations storing valuable goods
– Relocating food items and appliances, such as washing machines, to higher ground or unaffected areas in flood-prone regions
– Taking precautions against strong winds by securing loose items that could be displaced
– Avoiding driving heavy vehicles in Male’ during flooding events
Additionally, NDMA advises turning off electrical devices when not needed and making prior arrangements to ensure continuous access to food supplies and essential goods. They emphasize checking the latest weather updates from the Met Office for those planning sea travel.
Moreover, the Male’ City Council is also taking proactive steps in anticipation of the weather. A special disaster committee has been established, and efforts to place sandbags in areas most vulnerable to flooding will commence tonight.
