Adverse Weather Affects Over 8,000 People Across 21 Districts

The Ministry of Defence reports that 8,164 individuals from 2,249 families have been affected by the adverse weather conditions impacting 219 Divisional Secretariat Divisions across 21 districts.

Additional Secretary K.G. Dharmathilaka confirmed that three deaths were recorded, from May 14 until yesterday.

The MET Department has forecast over 75 mm of rain in several districts including Western, Sabaragamuwa, Nuwara Eliya, Galle, and Matara. 

Director General Athula Karunanayake said that rainy and windy conditions are likely to continue until the day after tomorrow.

A marine advisory has also been issued, warning of rough seas from Chilaw to Trincomalee via Puttalam, and from Galle to Pottuvil. 

The Department of Fisheries reports that several fishermen who ignored safety warnings have encountered danger at sea. 

Director General Susantha Kahawatta has urged the fishing community to refrain from going to sea until further notice.

Landslide warnings are now in effect for several areas. 

The National Building Research Organization (NBRO) has issued advisories for the following Divisional Secretariat Divisions:

Baddegama (Galle District)

Ganga Ihala Korale (Kandy District)

Aranayaka (Kegalle District)

Ambagamuwa and Norwood (Nuwara Eliya District)

Kiriella ( Ratnapura District)

The NBRO’s Landslide Research & Risk Management Division urges residents in mountainous and landslide-prone regions to remain alert to early warning signs and to take necessary precautions to ensure safety.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as the island braces for further impacts from the ongoing extreme weather.