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MNDF troops draining floodwaters in Malé. — Photo: MNDF

Severe tidal surges hit several coastal areas of Malé today, causing localized street flooding, depositing rocks and sand onto main roads, and damaging parked vehicles along the waterfront.

The tidal swells coincided with peak high tide during the afternoon, inundating key coastal zones across the capital. The Raalhugandu (surf point) area, the Industrial Village, the Alimas Carnival sector, and newly paved stretches of Boduthakurufaanu Magu experienced significant wave overtopping.

At the Industrial Village, incoming ocean swells knocked over multiple parked motorcycles, submerging them in saltwater and leaving behind severe vehicle damage. Meanwhile, powerful wave action washed substantial debris, sand, and rocks directly onto the newly upgraded four-lane asphalt stretch of Boduthakurufaanu Magu.

Following the influx of water, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Fire and Rescue Service launched active operations to pump out floodwaters and clear affected roadways to restore safe passage for commuters.

The Maldives Meteorological Service (MET Office) noted that while the capital experienced overcast skies today, weather conditions were not unusually severe during the surges. However, the surges coincided directly with peak high tide, leading to water overtopping coastal seawalls.

Key Data & Weather Statistics

• Affected Areas: Industrial Village, Raalhugandu (Surf Point),

  Carnival area, and newly paved sections of Boduthakurufaanu Magu.

• Emergency Response: MNDF Fire and Rescue Service deployed to drain floodwaters from major thoroughfares.

• Peak High Tide Today: Recorded at 11:53 AM at 0.74 meters.

• High Tide Forecast (Tomorrow): Projected to reach 0.79 meters at 12:28 PM.

• Wave Heights: Estimated at 2 to 5 feet in the region.

• Wind Conditions: Average west-northwesterly winds at 5 to 15 mph, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph during showers.