Met Office issues caution for sea travel as weather worsens on Friday

The Maldives Meteorological Service has issued a cautionary advisory for sea travellers, warning that weather conditions are expected to deteriorate across most parts of the country on Friday due to the ongoing southwest monsoon.

According to the Met Office, the monsoon system is bringing heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas to northern and southern atolls. Forecasts for Friday indicate rain showers, wind speeds reaching 31 km/h, and a high likelihood of rough sea conditions. 

The agency has urged all travellers, especially those planning sea journeys, to stay updated on weather developments and take necessary precautions.

“All parties, especially those travelling by sea, are advised to keep up to date with the weather,” the Met Office said.

For more information, the Met Office has asked the public to contact 3323084.

A yellow alert was issued from Raa Atoll to Vaavu Atoll on Thursday afternoon due to worsening weather conditions, with the advisory in effect from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm. 

Authorities have also reminded travellers that rough seas are common during the southwest monsoon, which typically brings strong winds, heavy rainfall and turbulent sea conditions across the Maldives.