Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office) has advised the public and seafarers to exercise caution amid rough sea conditions and strong winds forecast across parts of the Maldives during the Eid holiday travel period.

According to the Met Office, heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected across the country over the next 24 hours, with some northern islands likely to experience intense rainfall. Authorities stated that weather conditions in the southern atolls are expected to remain comparatively better.

The agency forecast winds of between 13 and 23 miles per hour across the northern and central atolls, with winds expected from the west and southwest. Southern atolls are expected to experience lighter winds ranging between 5 and 15 miles per hour, while gusts during showers may reach up to 40 miles per hour.

Sea conditions are expected to remain moderately rough in the northern and central Maldives, with wave heights forecast between four and seven feet. In the southern atolls, wave heights are expected to range between two and four feet.

The Met Office further stated that heavy rain is expected to continue across parts of the country over the coming three days and advised travellers and seafarers to monitor weather advisories issued by authorities, particularly as large numbers of people travel between islands during the Eid al-Adha holiday period.

Authorities, including the police and relevant emergency agencies, have also advised the public to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to minimise potential risks linked to deteriorating weather conditions.