Public Urged to Take Precautionary Measures in Preparing for Enhanced Monsoon Weather Over the Next 4 Days

Maldives Meteorology has issued weather warnings relating to intensifying monsoon weather over the northern atolls of Maldivian archipelago for the upcoming 4 days. MET projected that strong winds of 17-27 mph and possible gust of 50-60 mph caused due to strengthening monsoonal flow. As a result, the northern and central areas of the country are to expect occasional heavy showers and possible swell surges in some islands.  

Given the damages of extreme weather imposed on vulnerable islands of the Maldives, the national Disaster Management Authority urges islanders to take all precautionary measures to protect their properties from damages of possible flooding beforehand. In this regard, they suggest taking the below measures: 

• Stacking sand sacks at the entrances, minimizing chances of flood entering the property 
• Removing electronic items at floor level and elevating them on higher shelves. Furniture can be raised with the help of placing bricks below its feet. 
• Holding down roofs with the help of weight to prevent it from flying away in strong winds 
• Switching off unused electric equipment 
• Seafarers can ensure all telecom and emergency equipment are in place for emergency cases 

Acting beforehand during this window before the storms hits is crucial to ensure that damages are minimized as much as possible.