High winds in Hulhumale': Bus stop shelter ripped from stand, motorcycles topple over

During this morning’s severe weather in the Male' area, a bus stop shelter in Hulhumale' Phase 2 was dislodged from its stand, and numerous parked motorcycles were toppled by the strong winds.

A MET Office official stated that in the intense weather experienced early this morning, wind speeds in Hulhumale' reached 52mph.

This area in Hulhumale' Phase 2, near the Hiyaa Towers, habitually sees stronger than average winds during adverse weather conditions, with motorcycles toppling and loose trash in the area being blown around.

Today's high winds saw the bus stop shelter located near Hiyaa Tower 16 being completely pulled off its base.

In Hulhumale' Phase 1, a beach she-oak tree was uprooted, collapsing across Fithuroanu Magu. Another tree saw a branch breaking off, falling atop parked motorcycles.

MET Office has predicted severe weather conditions across a large part of the country over the next three days, with the weather expected to be worst in northern and central atolls.

MET Office has also cautioned seafarers to take precautions as rough seas and strong winds are forecast over the weekend.