The Maldives is advancing its national weather monitoring capabilities with the establishment of a sixth meteorological observatory in Maafaru, Noonu Atoll, part of a four-year effort to modernise infrastructure and strengthen early warning systems.
Meteorological officials say the Maafaru facility will play a critical role in improving weather data collection across the northern region. The country's existing observatories are situated in Hulhulé in Kaafu Atoll, Hanimaadhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Kadhdhoo in Laamu Atoll, Kadedhdhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, and Gan in Addu City. The network also includes automated weather stations spread across 20 islands and tidal monitoring sites that track environmental patterns.
The initiative, developed through international collaboration, focuses on modernising meteorological equipment nationwide, according to the Maldives Meteorological Services (Met Office). A key priority is the recommissioning of the radiosonde system in Gan, essential for upper-air weather observations. The programme, the Met Office said, also includes procurement of specialised monitoring instruments and comprehensive training for technical personnel.
Efforts are being coordinated by the United Nations Multiparty Trust Fund (UNMPTFF), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and the Met Office, reflecting a broader commitment to advancing climate resilience in the region. Met Office officials expect the expanded network to enhance forecasting accuracy while improving the Maldives' contributions to global meteorological data. The upgrades, the Met Office elaborated, are designed to refine early warning capabilities, providing essential information for disaster preparedness and long-term climate adaptation efforts.
As part of the rollout, the Met Office recently convened a working meeting with representatives from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Finnish Meteorological Institute, and the Regional Multi-Hazard Early Warning System for Asia and Africa (RIMES). More than 40 specialists attended, discussing implementation strategies, operational frameworks, and technological advancements necessary for the project's success. During the meeting, officials established a project steering committee to oversee the implementation of the four-year initiative.