Sri Lanka: Adverse weather forecast across most of the country through at least early May 1

Event

Adverse weather is forecast across most of the country through at least early May 1. Sri Lanka's Department of Meteorology has warned of heavy rainfall and lightning. Red rainfall warnings (the highest level) are in place for much of the south, southwest, and west, including Colombo. Orange warnings (second highest) are in place for the rest of the country. The full warning can be accessed by clicking here. A severe lightning warning is also in place for much of the country on April 30. The western half of the country is on a red level and the east on an orange level warning. The lightning warning can be accessed by clicking here.

Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce sustained rainfall across the affected areas and 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 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 rain 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
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges and roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and 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 flight delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at total capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.

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 through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect-borne and waterborne diseases in the coming days.