Bad Weather Strikes

Two people suffered serious burns last night after being struck by lightning whilst travelling in a dhoni boat, state newspaper Miadhu reports. It is the result of a continuing rash of bad weather that has hit the Maldives, despite the official start of summer just over a week ago.

The men are named as Ibrahim Hameed, 16 and Masoodhu Mohamed, 43, from Vilufushi. Health authorities have not confirmed the reports despite numerous calls to the Buruni Health Post, where they are being treated, as well as the Medical Services Department and Thaa Atoll Hospital.

There have also been reports of two mini-tornados in Thinadoo, Gaaf Daal Atoll and Nilhandoo, Faafu Atoll, which have damaged property.

The National Meteorological Office says 19 millimetres of rain has fallen over the capital Male’ in the last three days, leaving many places flooded. The National Defence Force is now working to clear the flooding.

Numerous floods have also been reported in Laamu Atoll, Maavashu island. Fonadhoo, Isdhu Kaladhoo, Maamendhoo and Gan islands in Laamu Atoll have also suffered flooding. The floods have left several people displaced, taken out electricity and damaged food supplies.

The bad conditions are unusual for December, which is the first month of the official summer time in the Maldives. Recently there were reports that Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, who were on their honeymoon in the country, cut their break short because of the continued bad weather.