Heavy rains and strong winds have adversely affected 12,142 people from 3,036 families across 14 districts in Sri Lanka, according to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC).The extreme weather had also claimed four lives and damaged around 480 houses, the DMC said, warning that conditions remained unstable in several provinces.
According to the DMC, the highest rainfall was recorded in some parts of the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and Southern Provinces, with several low-lying areas being submerged. The Department of Meteorology has cautioned that some areas may receive over 100 mm of rain in the coming days.
Disaster relief officers have been deployed to assist with evacuations and the distribution of dry rations, while the Navy and Army are on standby for potential rescue operations if water levels rise further.
Motorists have been urged to drive cautiously due to slippery roads and fallen debris, and fishermen have been advised not to venture into rough seas.
The DMC has also reminded the public to contact the 117 emergency hotline for any disaster or weather-related emergencies and continues to closely monitor the situation.
By Norman Palihawadane 