MNDF Urges Seafarers to be Cautious of the Weather

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has urged seafarers to pay attention to the weather.

MNDF stated that, as the Southwest Monsoon has intensified in the Maldives region during this period, and the National Meteorological Centre has forecast strong winds, rough seas, and rain, especially in the central and southern atolls, they urge special attention to the weather when travelling to the central and southern atolls.

MNDF also requested that if travelling even in these conditions, to not travel without informing the necessary parties, and to check whether items such as life jackets, communication systems, and dewatering pumps are in good condition on the travelling vessel. Furthermore, MNDF urged cargo vessels not to overload beyond the appropriate capacity when loading goods, and to keep them properly lashed.

In addition, MNDF has urged extra caution if travelling at night. MNDF also urged parties organizing diving and water sports to pay special attention to the weather, and to not travel when the National Meteorological Centre has issued a yellow or orange alert.