30-foot whale buried after washing ashore Hoarafushi island

Jul 7, 2026, 8:44 AM

The whale that washed ashore on Hoarafushi -- Photo: Island Council

A 30-foot dead whale washed ashore on the island of Haa Alif Hoarafushi yesterday.

The Hoarafushi Island Council said that the whale drifted into the island's lagoon. It has since been moved to the beach and buried.

"The 30-foot whale that washed onto the western reef of Haa Alif Hoarafushi has been brought ashore and buried with the assistance of the Council, Hoarafushi Police, MNDF Northern Area Command, and the MTCC Hoarafushi site," the Council announced.

The Council did not specify the species of the whale.

The whale that washed ashore on HA. Hoarafushi today: Following its removal from the shoreline, the carcass has been buried on the beach. -- Photo: Island Council

Whale strandings are a relatively common occurrence in the Maldives. In recent years, whales have washed ashore on several islands, including Seenu Hithadhoo, Haa Alif Thakandhoo, Baa Fehendhoo, and Thaa Hithaadhoo.

The largest whale recorded in recent history washed ashore on Laamu Kalaidhoo. In 2011, a massive 70-foot whale, measuring 30 feet in width, was discovered on the island's beach.

HA. Hoarafushi Marine life Animal

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