India, Sri Lanka: Adverse weather forecast over southern India and much of Sri Lanka through at least March 8 /update 1

Event

Adverse weather, including heavy rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, is forecast over southern India and much of Sri Lanka through at least March 8. The severe weather is associated with a depression currently located in the southwest Bay of Bengal, which is forecast to strengthen to a deep depression as it tracks north-northwestwards off the east coast of Sir Lanka towards Tamil Nadu State in India March 4-6.

As of March 3, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange (the second-highest level on a four-tier scale) thunderstorm, heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning warnings across Tamil Nadu State and Puducherry Union Territory March 6. Yellow thunderstorm, heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning warnings are in place over the rest of the affected area through March 8.

The Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology has warned of showers in Northern and North-Central provinces and Trincomalee District in Eastern Province, as well as showers or thunderstorms in Uva Province and Ratnapura, Hambanthota, and Nuwara-Eliya districts as the storm system tracks off the east coast March 4-6. Strong winds of 40-50 kph (25-30 mph) are likely in Northern Province and Trincomalee District. Rough seas are forecast along the northern, northeastern, and eastern coast vessels are advised not to go out to sea off the coast extending from Mannar to Batticaloa via Kankasanturai and Trincomalee.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change 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
The severe weather will likely continue to cause transport disruptions throughout the region. Heavy downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Landslides could also block roads and railways. Strong winds might pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Disruptions to rail transport are possible where floodwaters inundate tracks. Hazardous weather conditions might continue to cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential freight delivery delays if routing shipments by train or truck through affected areas. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged electricity outages. Confirm flight reservations.

Resources

India Meteorological Department
Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology