The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) yesterday said that over 1,700 individuals, belonging to 485 families, affected across nine districts, were grappling with the impacts of the severe weather, triggered by the southwest monsoon.
The monsoon, which became active on Thursday evening (29), has brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to several parts of the country, causing widespread disruptions and property damage. Colombo and its suburbs have borne the brunt of the storm, with traffic paralysed on key roads, due to fallen trees and debris.
In the Colombo District alone, 1,321 individuals from 245 families have been affected, with over 200 houses partially damaged, and three completely destroyed, the National Disaster Relief Services Centre (NDRCS) reported.
Two people sustained injuries in weather-related incidents in the district.
Across the country, the DMC confirmed that three homes have been fully destroyed, while over 300 hundred have been partially damaged. Tragically, one fatality was reported in the Puttalam District, where the monsoon’s fury was also felt. In total, eight people have been injured, nationwide.
As emergency teams continue to assess and respond to the situation, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant. The Department of Meteorology has issued a Red Alert warning for strong winds and rough seas, particularly around coastal areas.
The Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre highlighted that sea areas from Chilaw to Kankesanthurai via Puttalam and Mannar, and from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota, could experience very rough conditions, with wind speeds expected to reach 60–70 km/h. Other surrounding sea areas may also turn rough at times, with wind speeds rising to 50–60 km/h.
Naval and fishing communities have been strongly advised to avoid venturing into affected sea zones and to exercise extreme caution along the entire coastline.
Authorities are closely monitoring the evolving weather patterns and have mobilised disaster response teams to assist affected communities, ensure public safety, and mitigate further risks.