Heavy rain from 11 May 2021 caused flooding in parts of the Maldives. As of 13 May, at least 300 homes were affected.

Floods in Addu City, Maldives, May 2021. Photo: Maldives National Defence Force

Maldives Meteorological Service issued alerts for heavy rain, flooding, rough seas and strong winds from 10 May.

On 11 May, Maldives National Defence Force reported flooding in parts of Addu Atoll, including Addu City, Lhaviyani Atoll including Naifaru and Gnaviyani Atoll including Fuvahmulah. As of 13 May, Maldives police reported damages to 287 houses in Fuvahmulah, affecting around 1,500 people

Maldives Police said “Our officers working tirelessly to help people and mitigate damages in rain-affected areas around the country. Thick torrential rain continues in Fuvahmulah and damages to 287 households have been reported. Till now, our officers in Fuvahmulah have helped 118 households and continues providing relief efforts.”

Some areas recorded over 130 mm of rain in 24 hours to 13 may 2021. The conditions are a result of the onset of the Southwest Monsoon. Maldives Meteorological Service said “having met the criteria, the 12th of this month marks the onset of this year’s SW monsoon.”