Male' City records hottest day of the year as heat index hits 39°C

This Wednesday recorded the highest feels-like temperature experienced in Male' City so far this year, according to the Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office).

The heat index in Male' reached 39.1°C at 2:00 pm, placing conditions in the “very hot” category. 

Meanwhile, feels-like temperatures across other parts of the country remained comparatively normal, staying below 37°C. 

Under MET’s heat classification, temperatures above 37°C are considered hot, while readings above 39°C fall under very hot conditions.  

The Met Office has forecast above-average temperatures nationwide for the next three months as El Nino continues to strengthen in the Pacific Ocean.

According to the agency, above-normal rainfall is expected in central atolls from Male' to Thaa Atoll, while below-normal rainfall is likely in southern atolls during the September-November period.

El Nino’s influence is already visible in atmospheric and ocean conditions, with sea surface temperatures in the Pacific currently around 2°C above normal. 

The Met Office warns that unusually warm seas could place coral reefs under heat stress and increase the risk of bleaching. Fisheries and agriculture may also be adversely affected due to changes in rainfall and sea levels linked to El Nino, and the agency has urged relevant sectors to prepare for these impacts.