MET office forecasts fewer rainy days but higher rainfall
Nasr noted that current conditions reflect a transition between seasons.
The Maldives Meteorological Service has stated that total rainfall from June to September is expected to exceed seasonal averages, although the number of rainy days may be lower.
Speaking at a press briefing at the President’s Office, meteorologist Nasr Ismail said rainfall is likely to be concentrated over shorter periods.
“If the average rainfall is above normal while the number of rainy days decreases, it indicates that the precipitation will be heavy when it occurs,” he said.
Nasr noted that current conditions reflect a transition between seasons. He added that it has not yet been confirmed that the seasonal shift has taken place based on meteorological criteria.
He said the transition typically occurs during the first or second week of May, although it may extend to later in the month.
Nasr explained that the Maldives is among the first locations to experience the onset of the southwest monsoon, which develops in the Southern Hemisphere and moves northward.
The monsoon generally begins in the southern atolls, before moving to central and northern areas.
According to a seasonal forecast issued by the MET Office last Sunday, most parts of the Maldives are expected to receive above-average rainfall during the June to September period. Temperatures are also projected to remain above average.
