Rough seas in north and south as holidaymakers return to Male’ after Eid

As large number of people begin returning to Male' as the Eid holidays come to a conclusion, the Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office) has forecast rough sea conditions across the northern and central atolls today.

With government offices and schools set to reopen on Sunday after a nine-day holiday period, travelers who spent the break in the islands have started making their way back to the capital.

According to the Met Office, winds in the northern and central atolls are expected to blow from the southwest and west at speeds ranging between 10 and 20 miles per hour.

Authorities have urged seafarers to exercise caution, warning that wind gusts could reach up to 30 miles per hour.

The Met Office stated that the Maldives is currently under the influence of the Southwest Monsoon, which is expected to bring rain and possible thunderstorms to several parts of the country. Sea conditions in the northern and central regions are forecast to be moderately rough, while the southern atolls are likely to experience lighter winds and calmer seas.

The increase in travelers returning to Male' on the final day of the holiday period has resulted in a sharp rise in demand for domestic flights, ferries, and speedboat services. Transport operators have reported scheduling additional trips on some routes to accommodate the surge in passenger numbers.

This year's Eid celebrations featured vibrant family gatherings and a range of traditional cultural activities across the Maldives.

As holidaymakers continue their return journeys, authorities have urged the public to strictly follow safety guidelines during the busy travel period.