Met Office issues nationwide white alert for strong winds, rough seas

Maldives Meteorological Service has issued a white alert, warning of strong winds and rough sea conditions across Maldives.

The white alert will be in effect from 09:45 pm this Saturday to 02:30 am on Sunday.

Maldives Meteorological Service forecasts strong winds of 22 to 27 miles per hour and gusts of 45 miles per hour, along with rough sea conditions.

Scattered rain with isolated heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected across the country.

Wave surges are expected during high tides.

The service expects the strong winds and rough sea conditions will prevail over the next 48 hours, and has advised seafarers to pay extra attention to weather conditions when embarking on journeys.

Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has also issued a statement advising seafarers to pay attention to weather conditions.

MNDF has advised boat captains not to embark on journeys without checking the latest weather forecasts, and to ensure all safety equipment including lifejackets, communication systems, and water pumps are in working condition, and pay attention not to exceed the weight limit.

MNDF Coastguard Maritime Rescue Coordination Center has received reports of at least four incidents at sea over the past 24 hours, including a fishing boat which sank off the coast of K. Huraa earlier this Saturday.

Meanwhile, the MNDF continues to conduct a search operation to find a young man reported lost at sea in the early hours of Friday.