Yellow alert issued over 13 atolls, seafarers warned to take precautions

Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has issued an advisory instructing seafarers to be vigilant following yellow alerts issued over 13 atolls by Maldives Meteorological Service.

Maldives Meteorological Service, this Saturday, has issued yellow alert to atolls from N. Atoll to L. Atoll; N. Atoll, R. Atoll, B. Atoll, Lh. Atoll, K. Atoll, A. A. Atoll, A. Dh. Atoll, V. Atoll, M. Atoll, F. Atoll, Dh. Atoll, Th. Atoll, and L. Atoll.

It has warned of torrential rain, thunderstorms and gust winds of up to 45 miles per hour over the atolls.

Following the weather alert, MNDF has issued its own advisory instructing seafarers to be vigilant and take extra precautions.

MNDF has urged seafarers not to plan any journeys before obtaining the latest weather updates from Maldives Meteorological Service.

It has also advised seafarers inform relevant parties prior to embarking on journeys, and check that all safety equipment including life jackets, communication systems, and water pumps are in working order prior to embarking on journeys.

Extra caution has been advised for seafarers during night time.

It has warned cargo boats against overloading, and diving and other watersports organizers against planning activities without obtaining the latest weather information.

Owners of boats docked at lagoons and the open sea have been urged to give special attention to preventing the boats from flooding and any other possible damage due to the weather.

Seafarers are urged to report any incident at sea to the Coastguard toll free number 191 as soon as possible.