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03 Jun 2024 | 12:57 PM UTC

Sri Lanka: Nationwide response operations ongoing June 3 after severe weather

Emergency response operations are ongoing across Sri Lanka after adverse weather. At least 12 people killed.

Warning

As of June 3, a nationwide response operation is underway after several days of heavy rainfall triggered landslides and flooding. At least 12 people have been killed and six remain missing. Approximately 23,000 people have been transferred to evacuation centers and 400 residences have been damaged. Officials have closed schools and suspended electricity supply in places. The government has deployed the military to facilitate rescue operations and provide essential items to those impacted. As of June 3, nine districts have issued landslide warnings. Further scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms could occur over the coming days and trigger additional landslides and flooding, as well as hamper ongoing response operations.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional landslides and 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 landslide or flood-prone communities over the coming days. Where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks, further disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible.

Floodwaters and debris flows will likely render some bridges, rail networks, or 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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

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

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.