A national task force has been established by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to prepare for an expected wave of severe weather, as storm clouds have already begun to gather over the country.

The task force, made up of the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF), Maldives Police Service (MPS), and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), is working together to minimise the impact of the impending storm, which is expected to worsen as the evening progresses.

At a press conference held by the task force, MNDF's Major General Ibrahim Hilmy confirmed that the operation center has been set up at the MNDF headquarters in Bandaara Koshi. He outlined preparations, including placing sandbags and manning pump stations in Malé, with soldiers stationed across the Atolls on standby to assist in flood control and other emergency measures.

Police Commissioner Ali Shujau emphasised that the police were also ready to act, with personnel deployed in both Malé and the Atolls. He urged the public to limit movement in flooded areas and adhere to police instructions to avoid further damage, including road closures in affected regions.

Meanwhile, NDMA Chief Executive Hisan Hassan reported that emergency operations had been activated, with sandbags already placed in over 50 homes most likely to face flooding. Efforts are ongoing to protect additional homes and critical infrastructure. He urged the public to prepare by securing belongings and vehicles, especially small businesses, and emphasized the importance of safeguarding agricultural fields in anticipation of strong winds and wave surges.

The Maldives Meteorological Service (MET) issued a warning that the cyclone, currently moving west of the nation from the southwest Bay of Bengal, will bring heavy rains beginning late Monday night, continuing through Tuesday morning. As the weather intensifies, local authorities have mobilized resources to ensure public safety.

The MET Office reiterated the need for immediate precautions, advising the public to stay informed as conditions are expected to deteriorate further.