The Maldives' National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a public advisory urging residents to take precautions against flooding as heavy rains and strong winds affect the region. A yellow alert is in place for areas from Vaavu Atoll to Dhaalu Atoll until early January 2, with risks heightened by a cyclone forming near Sri Lanka. NDMA stresses the importance of safeguarding homes and valuables while the Maldives Meteorology Service warns of potential sea swells and rough seas.