White alert issued for some northern and central atolls

A white alert has been issued for some northern and central atolls.

The Maldives Meteorological Service has issued the white alert for the area from HA atoll to R atoll, and from V atoll to Th atoll. The white alert is effective for these atolls until 11:00 pm tonight, with winds expected to blow between 22 mph and 27 mph, and seas expected to be rough.

With the southwest monsoon intensifying over the Maldives region, the Maldives Meteorological Service and the Coast Guard have urged seafarers in the area to be cautious of the weather. The Maldives Meteorological Service stated that general winds are expected to be strong and seas very rough in these atolls tonight and tomorrow. Therefore, the agency has urged seafarers in these atolls to stay updated with the latest weather information and pay special attention to necessary safety precautions.

The Coast Guard has advised against travelling in these conditions without informing the relevant authorities, and urged checking whether items such as life jackets, communication systems, and dewatering pumps are in good condition on the travelling vessels. In addition, cargo vessels are urged not to overload goods beyond capacity and to secure them properly. Furthermore, the MNDF Coast Guard has urged travellers to wear life jackets and be extra cautious, advised diving and water sports organizers to pay special attention to the weather, and warned against travelling when a yellow or orange alert has been issued by the Maldives Meteorological Service.