The Malé region experienced record-breaking rainfall on Sunday, resulting in widespread flooding and displacement of several residents. The Maldives Meteorological Service reported that the most significant rainfall was recorded on Hulhulé Island, where the Velana International Airport (VIA) is located.
The Met Office documented a record 179.9 millimetres of rain on Hulhulé Island within 24 hours, marking an all-time high. Concurrently, Malé received 118.2 millimetres of rainfall, leading to widespread flooding that disrupted traffic and daily routines in the capital city. Goidhoo, located in Baa Atoll, also experienced substantial rainfall, with 105.6 millimetres recorded during the same period.
The incessant downpour disrupted daily life in Malé and the adverse weather conditions led to a series of flight delays and cancellations.
Floodwaters infiltrated over 140 homes in Malé, causing significant damage, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). 54 individuals from 11 households were relocated to temporary accommodations, as confirmed by Hisan Hassan, Chief Executive at NDMA. These displaced individuals were accommodated in guesthouses, with the NDMA providing food and other essential assistance for three days.
Officials from the NDMA are assessing the damage caused to homes affected by the flooding and a comprehensive report is expected shortly, according to Hassan. The prevailing weather conditions have also impacted other regions, with the NDMA extending assistance to several islands including Nilandhoo in Faafu Atoll, Guraidhoo in Kaafu Atoll, and Gan and Fonadhoo in Laamu Atoll, in addition to the southern cities of Fuvahmulah and Addu.
In response to the flooding, the NDMA, in collaboration with the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and the Maldivian Red Crescent (MRC), initiated efforts to provide sandbags to houses in flooded areas. The Malé City Council and Health Protection Agency (HPA) were also involved in the operation, alongside public and private companies.
On Sunday evening, President Mohamed Muizzu visited some of the affected houses in Malé City to inspect the damage caused by the flooding. The MNDF and other authorities worked throughout the night to pump out water to alleviate the flooding in the capital.