As heavy rains continue to batter the Maldives, authorities have issued a warning for heavy vehicles to stay off the roads in the Greater Malé area until the flooding situation improves.
In a statement released tonight, police urged the public to avoid driving four-wheelers, particularly heavy vehicles, unless absolutely necessary. With roads submerged in floodwaters, officials are concerned about the safety of residents and the ability of emergency services to manage the situation effectively.
The persistent rainfall, which started earlier this evening, has led to widespread flooding across the city, with many roads rendered impassable and several homes affected by the rising water levels. The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has been working tirelessly, deploying personnel across affected areas to drain floodwater and reinforce flood barriers using sandbags.
In response to the situation, the MET Office has issued an orange alert for Malé and surrounding areas. From 9:45 p.m. to midnight, the alert forecasts continued heavy rain, thunderstorms, and further flooding, exacerbating an already challenging situation for local authorities and residents.
The government has assured the public that measures are being taken to minimize disruptions caused by the rain. Heena Waleed, the President’s spokesperson, confirmed that various government agencies are collaborating to ensure that floodwaters are cleared as quickly as possible. Sandbags are being placed strategically throughout the city to control the water levels.
Local authorities continue to advise residents to stay alert and follow official channels for updates as the situation develops. They also urged citizens to prioritize safety and refrain from unnecessary travel until the water levels subside and conditions return to normal.
