A person crossing the road in Male' amid heavy rain: Rainy weather forecast over the next five days as long-weekend awaits next week. (Sun Photo/Fayaz Moosa)
The Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office) has forecast widespread rainfall across the country over the next five days, coinciding with a four-day long weekend beginning next week.
In conjunction with Republic Day on Wednesday, the government has declared the following Thursday a public holiday, resulting in four consecutive days off.
Speaking to Sun, a Met Office official said scattered showers and heavy rainfall are expected across various parts of the country through next Wednesday.
Despite the expected rainfall, winds are forecast to remain relatively light, generally ranging from 5 to 15 miles per hour. However, gusts could reach up to 40 miles per hour during squalls.
The department also noted that seas are expected to remain generally slight but could become rough during showers.
With many people expected to travel during the holiday period, the authorities have advised the public to exercise caution and stay updated on the latest weather forecasts.