"Thayaaru" launched to strengthen early warning systems

Maldives Meteorological Service has launched a nationwide initiative to improve its early warning capabilities in the face of growing climate risks and natural disasters.

The project, named Thayyaaru, was officially inaugurated by Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim on Sunday.

The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Maldives and the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA).

Speaking at the launch ceremony held at the Environment Ministry, Minister Thoriq said that the project is a vital step towards safeguarding communities from the increasing threats posed by climate change.

“The Thayyaaru project is very important for the safety of the people of Maldives. This project will provide us with important weather information quickly and the opportunity to prepare for it,” he said.

The programme will focus on strengthening the Maldives Meteorological Service’s technical capacity, including the collection and analysis of weather data. As part of the initiative, new weather monitoring centres will be established across the country, expanding the national network of meteorological stations.

The Ministry of Tourism and Environment said that the project will enable more accurate forecasting and faster dissemination of warnings in the event of extreme weather or natural disasters crucial for an island nation highly vulnerable to rising sea levels and severe weather events.