News Desk
Malé, — The capital city Malé has been left reeling after a relentless downpour triggered severe flooding, disrupting life across the island. The rain, which began at 8:00 a.m. yesterday and continued for 24 hours, unleashed 89.4 millimeters of water, overwhelming the city’s drainage systems and prompting emergency measures.
According to the Met Office, an unusually intense burst of 80 millimeters of rain fell in just three and a half hours—an extraordinary volume for such a short period. Maafannu ward, a densely populated area particularly vulnerable to flooding, has been hit hardest.
In a rare display of direct involvement, several ministers and government officials took to the streets, assisting with relief efforts. Even Members of Parliament were seen hauling sandbags alongside police, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. However, there has been muted criticism from the public, with some arguing that the government had time to prepare, given the advance warning.
Faris Maumoon of the Maldives Reform Movement (MRM) voiced his frustration on X, stating, “We had several days’ prior warning. The blocked gutters could’ve been cleaned, the pumps could’ve been mobilized, sandbags could’ve been deployed. Does it hurt so much to have plans and be prepared?”
The Disaster Management Authority (DMA) reports that 183 homes have been evacuated, while the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) deployed sandbags to 48 residences where water had already seeped indoors. The MNDF has pumped out over 3.2 million liters of water from 10 different locations across the city.
In response, President Dr. Mohammed Muizzu formed a task force late last night, personally chairing its first meeting. The task force is closely monitoring the situation, assessing damage, and exploring immediate solutions as the city braces for further rainfall. The Met Office has forecasted bad weather for the next five days, raising concerns about more severe flooding.
The relentless rain has not only disrupted daily life but has also caused significant physical damage. Several trees were uprooted, crushing parked vehicles. The Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has warned of potential flight delays throughout the week due to the adverse weather.
Beyond Malé, the heavy rainfall has affected 20 islands across the country, with AA. Thoddoo and Hulhulé recording 70.6 mm and 63.4 mm of rain, respectively. The intensifying western monsoon is believed to be driving the severe weather, causing widespread disruption across the country.
In response to the crisis, police have elevated their operational level and launched a special operation to ensure public safety. Meanwhile, damages to more than 200 homes have been reported to the DMA, with ongoing efforts to provide relief and assistance.
As the rain continues, the government has declared today a public holiday in an effort to keep residents safe and indoors. However, with more rain predicted, the situation remains precarious, and Malé’s residents are bracing for what could be a prolonged period of turmoil.
