18 Mar 2022 | 10:59 AM UTC
Sri Lanka: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least March 20
Thunderstorms. lightning, and heavy rainfall forecast across much of Sri Lanka through at least March 20. Severe lightning warnings issued.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across much of Sri Lanka through at least March 20. The Sri Lankan Department of Meteorology has issued an advisory for severe lightning across much of the country March 18 and rainfall is forecast across the country March 19 and in southern regions March 20. Under the advisory for severe lightning, the department warns that thundershowers will be accompanied by severe lightning and localized strong winds across much of Sri Lanka. The whole of Western, Southern, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Uva, and Eastern provinces, as well as Kurunegala District in North Western Province and Polonnaruwa District in North Central Province, are under the red level warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale which advises the public to take action). Puttalam District in Northwestern Province, Anuradhapura District in North Central Province, and Mannar and Vavuniya districts in Northern Province are under orange level warnings.
The Meteorology Department advises people to seek shelter, preferably indoors and never under trees. They also advise people to avoid open areas and not to use wired telephones and connected electric appliances during thunderstorms. People are also advised to avoid traveling in open vehicles, such as bicycles, tractors, and boats and to beware of fallen trees and power lines.
Hazardous Conditions
The thunderstorms will be capable of producing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and lightning. 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
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 contribute to transport disruptions throughout the country. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports
Advice
Confirm flights. 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 delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
