Seafarers urged to take precautions amid bad weather conditions

Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has advised seafarers to take precautions and pay attention to weather forecasts, with a large part of Maldives affected by heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas.

MNDF stated that Maldives Meteorological Service forecasts gusts of 45 miles per hour and rough seas, and advised boat owners and captains not to plan journeys without checking the latest weather updates.

Seafarers have been advised to inform necessary parties before embarking on journeys and check that life jackets, communication system, water pumps and other gear are in working order.

Smaller vessels have been advised to take extra precautions, and avoid journeys at nighttime and in bad weather.

MNDF has also advised for cargo vessels to ensure cargo does not exceed weight limits and are secured, and for vessels docked off the shore to pay extra attention to managing the vessels and pumping out water.

Vessels in distress have been advised to call Coastguard hotline 191 for assistance.