Tidal swells not as bad as predicted

Tidal swells caused minor flooding in five islands in southern Gaafu Alif and Gaafu Dhaal atolls and Kolhufushi Island in Meemu atoll.

The Maldives Meteorological Services had warned of tidal swells and flooding from September 27 to 30 in connection with the perigean spring tide, which occurs when the full moon coincides with the perigree of the moon – the point when the moon is closest to the earth.

Gaafu Alif Maamendhoo, Madaveli, Gaaf Dhaal Fiyori, Gadhoo, Rathafandhoo and Meemu Kolhufushi experienced flooding in the past 36 hours.

State authorities earlier this week advised laying sandbags to protect powerhouses, health centres, and garbage dumps, and to take foodstuffs, valuables, and electronic equipment at beachfront homes and offices further inshore. The police and military were on alert to assist islands at risk of flooding.