Seas remain rough as families travel back home ahead of school reopening

The national weather agency advised seafarers to be cautious of rough seas on Saturday, as families travel back home with schools set to reopen on Sunday after the first term break.

According to the daily weather forecast for Saturday by the Maldives Meteorological Service, it expects scattered rain with a few thunderstorms to occur over the country.

The agency also forecasts southwest/westerly winds of 13 – 23 miles per hour across the country.

Winds may gust to 40 miles per hour during showers.

Seas are expected to the rough, with waves expected to rise to the height of 4-7 feet.

The agency has issued an advisory urging seafarers to be cautious.

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.

The bad weather comes as families travel back home, with schools set to reopen Sunday for the second term.

Two people went missing on Friday, after a landing craft that set off from K. Thilafushi sank off K. Gaafaru.

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