At least 15 people have lost their lives, and over 19,000 individuals from more than 5,000 families were left stranded over the weekend due to severe monsoonal rainfall that wreaked havoc across Sri Lanka, authorities reported on Sunday.
At least 15 people have lost their lives, and over 19,000 individuals from more than 5,000 families were left stranded over the weekend due to severe monsoonal rainfall that wreaked havoc across Sri Lanka, authorities reported on Sunday. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) confirmed that the fatalities occurred in seven districts, including the capital, Colombo, where torrential rain exceeding 300 mm led to flash floods, uprooted trees, strong winds, lightning strikes, and landslides.
Recent adverse weather has caused floods & landslides in 🇱🇰, displacing many from their homes.
This video shows the resilience & coping strategies of communities facing annual flooding, like Bulathsinhala, Kalutara.
📹👉 https://t.co/xxjRfyfV0k
🕮👉 https://t.co/ISUre532Jr pic.twitter.com/HrlLOyIoSt
Yet another ride to heaven!
Understanding flash floods is crucial due to their sudden onset and potential loss of lives!
It is important that local Media creates awareness about flash floods during these days due to the frequency and intensity of extreme weather! pic.twitter.com/QxF1pUIdQB
The heavy rainfall severely impacted twenty of the country's 25 administrative districts, causing widespread destruction. More than 4,000 homes suffered partial damage, and 28 houses were completely destroyed.
In response to the crisis, the Sri Lankan Army mobilized seven teams equipped with boats to conduct rescue operations. Additionally, the Air Force put three helicopters on standby for immediate emergency response in the affected areas.
The flood situation in southern Sri Lanka as seen from an air force Y12 aircraft today: pic.twitter.com/q9F1I3vAni
— Ranga Sirilal (@rangaba)Sri Lanka Air Force monitoring the flood situation in Akuressa pic.twitter.com/WfbjFrVCOU
— NewsWire 🇱🇰 (@NewsWireLK)Anticipating further rainfall and potential flooding, the Ministry of Education announced the closure of all schools across the island for Monday as a precautionary measure.
To ensure safety and prevent further hazards, the Ministry of Power and Energy suspended electricity supplies to several areas. Meanwhile, the National Building Research Centre issued red notices for landslides in four districts, urging residents to remain vigilant.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as rescue operations and relief efforts are underway to assist those affected by this devastating natural disaster.