Scattered rain with few thunderstorms expected as monsoon rains persist

The national weather agency forecasts scattered rain with a few heavy showers across the Maldives for Thursday, as monsoon rains continue.

According to the daily weather forecast issued by the Maldives Meteorological Service, it expects the country to continue to experience scattered rain with a few heavy showers and thunderstorms.

The agency also forecasts southeast/southerly winds of 5 – 15 miles per hour in the south, and southwest/westerly winds of 10 – 20 miles per hour elsewhere.

Winds may gust to 35 miles per hour during showers.

Seas are expected to be slight in southern atolls and moderate elsewhere, turning rough during showers.

Waves are expected to rise to the height of 2-5 feet.

The weather agency has also warned that swell wave surges are possible during high tides.

The current spell of bad weather is attributed to the intensification of the Hulhangu Monsoon, which is expected to result in rougher, possibly unusually rougher seas, in the coming days.

Authorities have urged seafarers to take precautions.

The bad weather comes as families travel back home, with schools set to reopen next week after the term break and Independence Day holiday.

Authorities have urged seafarers to check the latest weather updates and ensure safety equipment are in order before setting out on trips.