June 16, Colombo (LNW): Authorities have extended precautionary alerts for landslides across various parts of the island, as heavy and prolonged rainfall continues to raise the risk of ground instability.
The National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) confirmed that these warnings will remain active until 4:00 p.m. today (16).
Among the affected regions, a Level 2 warning—categorised as ‘Amber’ under the NBRO’s hazard classification system—has been issued for the Ratnapura and Ayagama Divisional Secretariat Divisions and adjacent areas within the Ratnapura District.
This elevated alert signifies an increased likelihood of landslides, slope failures, rock falls, and ground subsidence, prompting residents to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures.
Additionally, a broader Level 1 (Yellow) advisory, denoting early signs of potential landslide risk, has been declared for several other regions across the country. The Colombo District’s Padukka Division is currently under this warning, alongside Elpitiya in Galle and multiple zones in Kalutara, including Walallawita, Matugama, Bulathsinhala, Palindanuwara and Agalawatta.
Further inland, the Ganga Ihala Korale Division in Kandy, as well as the Ambagamuwa area in Nuwara Eliya, have also been flagged. In Kegalle, three divisions—Deraniyagala, Dehiowita, and Yatiyanthota—are under similar alert status.
Meanwhile, additional locations in Ratnapura District including Eheliyagoda, Kalawana, Pelmadulla, Nivithigala, Kuruwita, and Elapatha continue to be monitored under the Level 1 warning.
The NBRO urges residents in these zones to be especially cautious if they observe warning signs such as the appearance of cracks on walls or soil, leaning trees, unusual sounds from the ground, or changes in water flow patterns.
Local authorities, disaster response units, and community leaders have been advised to maintain close coordination to mitigate risk and ensure swift response if conditions deteriorate.
Residents are encouraged to follow updates through official NBRO channels and to prioritise safety over property should evacuation become necessary. The situation remains dynamic, with rainfall expected to continue intermittently in several regions throughout the day.
