National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has stated that six houses were damaged due to heavy rains and tidal waves in Dhigurah, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll.
The biggest damage was caused to the boats in the harbour of Dhigurah, according to NDMA. In addition, equipment and goods were damaged by the heavy rains in a residential house and a guesthouse on the island. Tidal waves entered a shop in the village and damaged the goods in the shop. The details of the damage caused by the floods are being investigated by the Dhigurah Island Council.
Dhigurah does not usually face floods in bad weather. The island has also not seen tidal waves since the tsunami in 2004, according to the residents of the island.
The Maldives Meteorological Service (MET Office) has said the current rainfall is due to the intensification of the western monsoon. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected in some parts of the country until October 18. Some southernmost islands will be affected by showers. West and southwest winds will be between 15-25mph in the central atolls while southwest and west winds will be between 10-20mph in other parts of the country. Strong winds of up to 45mph are expected in the area. The seas will be generally strong and wave heights will be between 4-7ft.