29 May 2017 | 09:13 AM UTC
Sri Lanka: Death toll from flooding, mudslides rises to at least 91 May 26 /update 1
Government officials report that at least 91 people have been killed and another 110 are missing due to flooding and mudslides on May 26
Event
The government announced on Friday, May 26, that the death toll following severe flooding and mudslides that hit the country earlier in the day has increased to 91 people. Another 110 people are still missing. According to the Disaster Management Center, 2040 residents have been evacuated to safer locations and more than 61,000 have been affected by the rains. The southern cities of Galle, Matara, Kalutara, and Ratnapura, all located in Sabaragamuwa province, are among the worst affected areas.
Further rainfall and strong winds are forecast over the next 72 hours in the southwest. The Department of Meteorology warned on Friday that heavy rainfall of more than 15 cm (6 in) can be expected in some places. Heavy rainfall was reported in the Southern and Sabaragamuwa provinces overnight. Ratnapura recorded around 20 cm (8 in) of precipitation.
Context
The southwest monsoon typically affects Sri Lanka in May and June.
Advice
Individuals present in affected regions are advised to follow instructions issued by local authorities, particularly evacuation orders, and to keep abreast of weather forecasts. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.
