October 26, Colombo (LNW): Severe weather conditions that have persisted over the past few days have caused widespread disruption across much of the island, with 18 districts now reported to be affected.
The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) confirmed that nearly 30,000 people from over 7,000 families have suffered the consequences of the relentless downpours, which have triggered flooding, landslides, and property damage in multiple areas.
DMC Director Pradeep Kodippili noted that emergency teams have been mobilised to assist communities in the hardest-hit regions, providing temporary shelters, essential supplies, and relief assistance where necessary. Local authorities are said to be monitoring the situation closely as rainfall continues in several provinces.
Meanwhile, Dr Wasantha Senadeera, Senior Geologist at the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), announced that the landslide warnings previously issued for 11 districts would remain in force due to persistent rain and increasingly unstable slopes. Residents living near hilly or elevated terrain have been urged to remain vigilant and to relocate to safer areas if early signs of ground movement are detected.
The Department of Irrigation has also cautioned that water levels in key rivers — including the Nilwala, Gin Ganga, Kalu Ganga, and Attanagalu Oya — are still alarmingly high following continuous rainfall. Officials have warned that further showers could cause these rivers to overflow, posing risks to nearby low-lying communities.
Authorities have called on the public to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel in flood-prone zones, and heed official updates as adverse weather conditions are expected to persist over the coming days.
