The Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has asked travelers to be cautious of rough seas and stormy weather.

The MNDF referred to the Maldives Meteorological Services’ (MMC) alert on Laamu and Gaafu Dhaal atolls, and especially stressed caution in the region.

Boat operators have been advised to stock lifejackets and ensure that bilge pumps and telecommunications services in vessels are fully functional.

They were further asked to refrain from overloading vessels.

The Service says that torrential rain with heavy thunderstorms were expected in those atolls.

MMC issued the white alert for Wednesday from morning until noon.

It had said that surface winds will vary between north east and easterly at 10 –18 miles per hour in central and northern atolls and South and Southwesterly at 5 – 15 miles per hour in southern atolls.