Dewatering pumps and related resources facilitated 72 flood-prone islands

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) states dewatering pumps and related resources have been facilitated to 72 islands that are usually flood-prone during bad weather.

The relevant authorities are undertaking precautionary measures with bad weather expected to prevail over the majority of Maldives from today onwards until Saturday.

NDMA, Maldives Police Service (MPS) and Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) held a joint press conference on Monday morning to brief the public regarding efforts underway to minimize damage that can be caused by the severe weather conditions.

Speaking at the press conference, NDMA’s CEO Hisan Hassan said resources have been provided to flood-prone islands to prepare for possible floods.

“As of present, we have facilitated dewatering pumps and related resources to 72 islands that are usually flood-prone. In addition to this, fixed-based dewatering systems have also been established at islands,” he detailed.

Hisan said Community Emergency Response Teams based at islands will be the first responders in case of flooding at islands, adding Police, MNDF and other authorities will intervene if floods are too severe for them to control.

He noted that this had also been the protocol implemented previously.

NDMA had last night also 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

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