Strong winds rip roofs off Dhidhdhoo homes amid heavy rain

The roofs of six houses in Haa Alifu atoll Dhidhdhoo blew out during the heavy rainfall for the island on Tuesday early hours.

The island's council president Abdulla Rasheed spoke to 'Sun', stating the incident was reported around 04:00hrs on Tuesday dawn. Roofs of six residences near the social housing flats had blown out during the storm, while other buildings nearby reported various damages as well.

The incident was earlier reported by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) corroborating the council's statement.

NDMA also added that relevant authorities were removing damaged roofs from the impacted houses, before new ones are installed.

Abdulla confirmed temporary shelters have been provided for the families of these houses already. He added some of these families have taken shelter with their relatives.

Abdulla also said relevant authorities are now working to repair the damages, and added he expects the families can return to their houses by Tuesday late evening.

"We expect an estimate of MVR 150,000 to repair the roof damages of each residence. We are repairing the properties with the support of relevant authorities," Abdulla added.

He highlighted potential damages for the furniture and fittings in these houses if roof repairs are delayed, and affirmed they are working expeditiously.

"Aid will be provided ensuring no future damage during storms, the council will make assessment reports which will be shared with us," an NDMA official said.

Maldives is now experiencing the southwest monsoon with heavy rainfalls, thunder and rougher seas. Earlier on Tuesday, Maldives Meteorological Center (MET Office) issued a nationwide white alert effective from 05:30hrs to 10:30hrs.