Environment
While the National Meteorological Service issued a White Alert for a large area of the Maldives and an Orange Alert for Fuvahmulah and Addu City, heavy rainfall on September 11, 2026, caused flood damage to more than 30 houses in Feydhoo, Addu City, prompting the NDMA to arrange temporary shelter for a family of 8 residing in a house damaged beyond habitability. Meanwhile, with 9 crew members rescued from the two foreign vessels, "KG 1" and "AL 1," which dragged anchor during the storm while under the custody of Maldives Customs and struck a pillar of the Sinamale Bridge, the two vessels drifted and sank approximately 30 nautical miles east of Male Atoll, with authorities confirming that no major damage was caused to the bridge.
On Friday, 11 September 2026, a dangerous accident occurred when two boats drifting in the channel collided with the Sinamalé Bridge. The two vessels, which had drifted out of control due to the strong channel current, both sank later after hitting the bridge. Relevant authorities are currently investigating the matter and assessing the damage caused by the incident.
Heavy rain that struck the southern atolls on 11 September 2026 caused water to enter more than 30 homes in Feydhoo, Addu City, resulting in major damages. According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), one house was rendered uninhabitable due to flooding, and efforts were undertaken to arrange temporary shelter for a family of 8, including two people with disabilities, residing in that house. With the Met Office having issued Orange and Yellow alerts for the area following heavy downpours, drainage efforts across roads and houses were carried out jointly by MNDF, Police, and the City Council.
In connection with the weather warnings issued by the Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office) on 11 September 2026, White Alerts and Orange Alerts were issued for various regions of the Maldives along with important instructions. In these instructions, as rainy weather, strong winds, and rough seas are anticipated, sea travelers in particular have been urged to pay special attention to the weather. Citizens have also been advised to take precautions in advance to protect against incidents such as heavy rain and flooding in areas where an Orange Alert has been issued, and to fully comply with the instructions given by relevant authorities. Furthermore, the Met Office reminded sea travelers to ensure that safety equipment is fully in place before departing on a journey.