Sri Lanka: Further rain expected through October 12 /update 1

Event

The Department of Meteorology has lifted weather warnings implemented on October 8 for heavy rain and thunderstorms that have caused deadly flooding in recent days, notably in southern and western parts of the country that received up to 10 cm (4 in). Local reports indicate that at least nine people have been killed so far and, according to the Disaster Management Center, 70,000 people have been affected in total.

However, a depression has developed into a cyclone in the Bay of Bengal and as such further rain is forecast through Friday, October 12, in the south of the country. As of October 10, storm was located around 16.0N, 85.8 E, moving west-northwest. Further flooding, landslides, damage to road infrastructure, and power cuts are possible.

Context

Sri Lanka is usually affected by two monsoon seasons, one running from March to May and the second from October to November. Severe monsoon storms hit the country in May, leaving 12 killed and over 40,000 displaced.

Advice

Individuals present in Sri Lanka 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.