November 23, Colombo (LNW): The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has reported that the death toll from ongoing severe weather has climbed to nine, as widespread rainfall continues to disrupt life across the country.
DMC Director Pradeep Kodippili said the prolonged downpours have caused flooding in multiple areas, while numerous incidents of rocks tumbling onto roads have been reported, creating hazards for motorists and residents alike.
Meanwhile, the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has extended landslide warnings for ten districts. Senior Geologist Dr Wasantha Senadeera confirmed that alerts remain in effect for several Divisional Secretariat Divisions in Colombo, Kalutara, Galle, Kandy, Kegalle, Matara, Ratnapura, Badulla, Hambantota, and Nuwara Eliya.
The Meteorological Department noted that persistent atmospheric disturbances have brought continuous rainfall to many parts of the island, with heavy showers expected to continue into the evenings. Strong winds have also caused trees to topple onto power lines along the Mapalagama–Galle main road, resulting in traffic disruptions in Nagoda.
In Matara district, flooding was reported across several areas of Deniyaya town, prompting security forces to assist residents whose daily routines were interrupted. The Baddanwala section of the Matara–Kotapala road was completely submerged, blocking passage. The Uruboku Oya also overflowed near Katuwana town overnight, inundating the town and surrounding communities.
The Matara District Relief Services Centre reported that 363 people from 100 families have been affected by the adverse weather. Additional low-lying areas and roads in Bulathsinhala, Kalutara, have also been submerged, compounding the impact of the ongoing heavy rainfall. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and advise residents to exercise caution.
