Swell waves forecasted amidst bad weather spell

National metrological service, Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office) has forecasted possible swell waves for the next three days as Maldives experience a bad weather spell amidst the southwest monsoon (wet season).

Maldives has been experiencing monsoon rain since last week, accompanied by strong winds and rough seas.

Met Office, on Thursday, said there is a possibility of swell waves during high tides over the next three days amidst southwest monsoon rain.

According to Met Office, the severe or disruptive rain being experienced in the country will last through Saturday. But more rain and strong winds are expected until at least the end of next week.

As such, the agency had urged the public, especially seafarers, to be cautious.

Notably, both Maldives Police Service and Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) have also urged the public against traveling unless necessary and in such cases, to inform authorities before embarking on the trip.

Two dangerous marine accidents were reported on Thursday alone. Almaak Fiya, a 100-foot landing craft, was headed from Male’ City to the resort island of K. Eriyadhoo with a crew of seven people when it overturned. At least two people have been found dead while one remains missing.

Meanwhile, MNDF Coastguard rescued five people on a cargo boat traveling from Male’ City to Lh. Naifaru after it began sinking.