Heavy rain causes severe flooding in Kurendhoo
The flooding has caused extensive damage to the island's infrastructure, including severe harm to the magistrate's court.
Maldives is experiencing widespread heavy rain, leading to significant flooding in Lh. Kurendhoo and storm damage in Dh. Bandidhoo.
Videos and photos circulating on social media show flooded streets and homes, as the relentless rain inundates the island of Kurendhoo. The flooding has caused extensive damage to the island's infrastructure, including severe harm to the magistrate's court.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) reported that Kurendhoo has been flooded since Monday morning. Efforts to mitigate the flooding are underway, with the island council and Northern Area Command collaborating to drain water using pumps and creating temporary channels.
To support affected residents, the council is arranging temporary accommodations and providing meals. However, the council has yet to make an official statement on the situation.
In addition to the flooding in Kurendhoo, Bandidhoo faced a violent storm early Monday morning, causing substantial damage. According to NDMA officials, part of a house’s kitchen roof was torn off, and trees have fallen across various parts of the island.
Efforts to repair the roof and clear the debris are ongoing, though officials have indicated that restoring the kitchen will take some time. The NDMA emphasised that these incidents highlight the urgent need for continued vigilance and immediate response as weather conditions worsen across the nation.
The Maldives Meteorological Service (MET) confirmed that heavy rains have affected southern, central, and northern regions of the Maldives, with rainfall intensifying under the influence of the western monsoon. Addu recorded the highest rainfall over the past 24 hours, with 110mm in Hithadhoo.
The MET has warned that heavy rains are expected to persist over the next three days. Residents are urged to remain cautious and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this period of adverse weather.
The NDM and local councils are working closely to address the needs of those impacted by the rains and storms. Temporary housing, food supplies, and repair efforts are being prioritised. However, the scale of the damage, particularly in Kurendhoo and Bandidhoo, underscores the need for ongoing support and preparedness for future incidents.
