Sandbags placed at over 50 homes in Male’ following flood forecast

Sandbags have been placed at over 50 homes in Male’ that have been observed as susceptible to floods as heavy rain is forecasted for the Maldivian capital.

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said Male’ City Council placed sandbags at 56 homes that have been observed as susceptible to floods last night.

On Monday morning, Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) said they were already undertaking efforts to drain floods from some Male’ roads following heavy rain earlier in the day. Pumps have been placed at the West Park area as part of these efforts. 

NDMA has advised the public to take precautionary measures to minimize any damage the severe weather conditions may cause. In this regard, they have advised the following measures to minimize damage to both property and belongings:

• Stay alert for possible flooding due to heavy rain and place sandbags or other barriers at doorways to prevent water from entering homes.
• Avoid parking motorcycles and vehicles in areas that are at risk of flooding.
• Take proactive steps to safeguard business premises and valuable items stored in shops, warehouses, restaurants, and other facilities from potential damage.
• Move food supplies and household appliances from flood-prone areas to higher and safer locations.
• Take measures to secure items that could be blown away by strong winds
• Avoid driving heavy vehicles if Male’ roads become flooded
• Switch off electrical appliances when not in use
• Stock up on staple foods and essential supplies ahead of time

NDMA has also strongly urged seafarers to seek the latest weather updates from authorities before setting forth their journey.