A young mother died and one of her two sons missing after being swept into the sea by a strong wave while traveling on a speedboat during rough seas.
They were travelling from Male' to Vaavu Atoll on Saturday evening with dozens of people when the tragedy happened.
Police said the woman was brought dead to the shore. The elder child is survived.
The accident occurred around 5:30 pm near Olhuveli Resort.
The victims were taken to the Health Center in Kaafu Guraidhoo.
Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has said the search for the missing child was currently underway by the coast guard and the family of the child. The missing child was wearing a black T-shirt, they said.
A total of 12 people were on the speedboat when this accident occurred.
Maldives Meteorological Service (MET) has forecasted extremely rough seas for the next three days and has issued caution for sea travellers as well.
MET has said Maldives will experience winds at the speed of 18-28 mph for the next 24 hours. They have also forecasted rough seas and heavy rains, in addition to scattered showers and thunderstorms too.
An official from MET informed Mihaaru News that the wind speed will be stronger on Sunday, and will be calmer on Monday.
Alert Yellow extended over the country.
— Maldives Meteorology (@MetMaldives) October 16, 2021
Strong winds, gust, and very rough seas are expected.
All, especially seafarers, are strongly advised to take all necessary precautions! pic.twitter.com/i5sJvKe6Se
Additionally, MET has extended the yellow alert they issued for the entire nation as well. The alert lasts till 12:30 am on Sunday, and MET forecasts windspeeds of 23-35 mph, while gusts of 55 mph are to be expected.
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