White alert issued for heavy rain and strong winds

Maldives Meteorological Service has issued a white alert for bad weather conditions across the country.

The alert, in effect from 9.45 am to 3.30 pm today, forecasts heavy rain and strong winds of 22 to 27mph, with gusts reaching up to 45mph.

Rough seas and swell surges are also expected, MET Office states.

With adverse weather conditions affecting much of the country since the beginning of the weekend, MET Office has urged the public to take extra caution when travelling by sea.

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has also advised against non-essential travel until weather conditions improve, and recommended that those who must travel by sea follow the latest weather updates before traveling.

Bad weather is expected to last until tomorrow.