26 May 2021 | 11:23 AM UTC
Sri Lanka: Power outages reported across several areas due to inclement weather, May 26 /update 1
Tens of thousands of people without power in Sri Lanka due to severe weather, May 26.
Event
Approximately 76,000 people are without power in several areas of Sri Lanka, May 26, due to severe weather. Electricity disruptions are occurring in several areas, including Balangoda, Dambulla, Horana, Ingiriya, Kegalie, Kuliyapitiya, Kurunegala, and Ratnapura. Authorities are working to restore electricity in affected areas. The outages have occurred amid ongoing thunderstorms, strong winds, and flooding forecast to continue across Sri Lanka through at least early May 27. Inclement weather may result in additional power outages. At least 43,000 people have been impacted by ongoing flooding and at least 5 people have died.
Government Advisories
As of May 26, officials have issued red-level (highest-level) rainfall warnings for portions of southwest Sri Lanka. Additionally, yellow- and orange-level landslide warnings are in place for southern and central areas May 26-27. Authorities have also issued warnings for strong winds, especially in the central and northern portions of the country. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger intermittent flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
