The Maldives Meteorological Service has issued a white alert from Haa Alifu Atoll to Thaa Atoll, warning of strong winds between 22 and 27 mph, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph.

The alert is in effect from 9.45 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. on July 19.

Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and rough seas are expected across the northern and central atolls during this period, with swell surges likely in open sea areas. The Met Office noted that the southwest monsoon is expected to intensify further over the next two days, bringing widespread unsettled weather.

Thunderstorms are forecast to continue across most of the country over the next 24 hours, with some islands likely to experience moderate to heavy rainfall. According to the latest records, Fuvahmulah received the highest rainfall in the past 24 hours, with 51.5 millimetres recorded.

Wind speeds are expected to vary between 10 and 25 mph across different regions, with stronger gusts of up to 50 mph possible during storms. The seas are forecast to be particularly rough in northern and central regions, and moderately rough in the south.

The Met Office has urged the public, especially those travelling by sea, to take necessary safety precautions and to stay informed through official forecasts, as conditions are expected to worsen.