Students Shift to Activity Wear as Heat Intensifies

Schools across the Maldives have eased uniform requirements as rising temperatures make standard attire increasingly uncomfortable for students.

The Maldives Meteorological Service reports that feels-like temperatures are nearing 40°C in many parts of the country. Although the average temperature remains around 32°C, high humidity is pushing the perceived heat to levels between 32°C and 45°C.

Following the reopening of schools after the Ramadan break, administrations have begun allowing students to attend classes in activity uniforms. The decision was communicated to students yesterday in response to the intensifying heat.

Typically, the official school uniform includes multiple layers. Female students wear skirts with trousers underneath, while male students wear shirts and trousers. Neckties are also part of the dress code for both, which many students have long found uncomfortable in the tropical climate.

With temperatures climbing steadily since late February, schools are now permitting lighter options such as T-shirts and tracksuit pants to help students stay comfortable during lessons.

The Maldives usually experiences its warmest conditions during the Northeast monsoon season, which runs from January through June, with April often being the hottest month.

Historically, the highest recorded feels-like temperature was 48°C in Malé on April 1, 2024.

Recent readings taken at 11:00 a.m. today show feels-like temperatures of 37.4°C in Hanimaadhoo, 36.3°C in Malé, and 36.1°C in L. Kahdhoo.