Maldives Meteorological Service (Met Office) has predicted that weather conditions will deteriorate during the first five days of the New Year.

In a statement, the Met Office said widespread rainfall is expected across the Maldives due to a cyclone in the southeast of Sri Lanka.

The Met Office predicted "occasional heavy showers and thunderstorms, strong winds and swell surges during the New Year period."

Sea conditions are expected to be rough across the country. The Met Office advised to pay attention to weather forecasts before travelling.