The Maldives Meteorological Service has warned of unsettled weather across the northern and central atolls, with rough sea conditions forecast over the next 24 hours.

Officials from the Met Office confirmed that a white alert had been issued for the northern atolls due to heavy rainfall and strong winds. The advisory was in force from 4am to 10pm, during which thunderstorms were reported and gusty winds were recorded at 19 to 24 miles per hour, with some gusts rising to 40 miles per hour.

The forecast also highlights the likelihood of light to moderate rain or thundershowers in the central and northern atolls over the next 24 hours. Thunderstorms, accompanied by light rainfall, are also expected in parts of the south.

In addition, squally winds of 13 to 23 kilometres per hour, with gusts of up to 25 kilometres per hour, are expected over the southwest, extending from the west to the central and northern islands. Conditions in the southern atolls are likely to be calmer, although winds of 7 to 17 miles per hour, with gusts reaching 40 miles per hour, are still anticipated.

According to the Met Office, seas in the central and northern regions are expected to remain rough, while southern waters are likely to be moderate.

Seafarers have been urged to remain cautious in light of the prevailing strong winds and unsettled seas across the northern and central atolls.