Male' streets flood due to heavy rain, Orange Alert issued

Male' has been experiencing heavy rain since this morning, resulting in nearly all the streets becoming flooded.

Rain in Male' began around 11:00 hrs this morning.

Maldives Meteorological Service (MET Office) has now issued an Orange Alert from Kaafu atoll to Alif Dhaalu atoll until 18:15 hrs today.

Police said that they have received multiple reports of flooding and water seeping into residences in Male' and islands. The Police are now working to assist residents through working on flood control measures.

"With the heavy rain in Male', Police are active in various areas and near schools to ensure safety and security of residents," Police said.

They implored on drivers to be mindful of personal safety and that of others around them.

MNDF is also working on draining flood water from Male' streets.

Maldives is currently experiency torrential rains and thunderstorms across the country as the south-west monsoon (Hulhan'gu) intensifies. At present, the weather is worse in the northern atolls. MET Office issued an Orange Alert yesterday from Haa Alif to Shaviyani atoll, with many islands in the region facing severe flooding.

MET Office earlier announced that 223.5 mm rainfall was recorded in Haa Alif atoll Kelaa yesterday, marking the highest recorded amount of rainfall in 24 hours ever recorded in Maldives yet.

Similar rough weather conditions have been forecast for the coming five days as well, with strong winds, rough seas, heavy downpours and thunderstorms expected.

Wind speeds are expected to be between 17 to 27 miles per hour in northern and central atolls, with the southern atolls expected to see wind speed between 13 to 23 miles per hour. Wind gusts of 60 miles per hour were also warned.

Swell waves may also surge at high tide, with seas expected to be very rough across the country.