Sri Lanka: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across eastern and southern regions as of Jan. 12

Disruptions due to flooding are ongoing across parts of eastern and southern Sri Lanka as of Jan. 12. Heavy rainfall and strong winds in decent days have led to rising river levels, property damage, and transport disruptions across parts of Eastern, North-Central, and Uva provinces, as well as Ratnapura District in Sabaragamuwa Province, Hambantota Province in Southern District, and Mullaitivu District in Northern Province. Disaster Management authorities have reported more than 175,000 people have been affected across the impacted areas, with a vast majority of these in Ampara District in Eastern Province. At least two fatalities have been confirmed and more than 9,000 people have been evacuated. Nearly 300 homes have been damaged and several roads and bridges have been made impassable by floodwaters. Train services have been suspended in parts of the affected regions.

Further adverse weather is forecast across much of Sri Lanka over the coming days. The Sir Lanka Meteorological Department has warned of showers in Eastern and Uva provinces Jan. 12-13 and isolated showers and storms over parts of Central, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, and Western provinces.

Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional 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.

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.