Sri Lanka: 13 killed in mudslides and floods May 25-26

Event

Local authorities announced on Friday, May 26, that at least 13 people had been killed as a result of adverse weather conditions in the south of the country, while four other people are missing. Nine out of the 13 victims were killed in a landslide that occurred in Bulathsingala (Western Province) on Friday. Mass evacuations were carried out on Friday as heavy overnight rainfall resulted in rivers overflowing their banks and flooding several areas. The Sri Lanka Air Force was used to evacuate people from the most affected areas with helicopters. The southern cities of Galle, Matara, Kalutara, and Ratnapura, all located in Sabaragamuwa province, are among the worst affected areas.

Context

Further rainfall and strong winds are forecast over the next 72 hours in the southwest. The Department of Meteorology warned on Friday that heavy rainfall of more than 15 cm (6 in) can be expected in some places. Heavy rainfall was reported in the Southern and Sabaragamuwa provinces overnight. Ratnapura recorded around 20 cm (8 in) of precipitation. The southwest monsoon typically affects Sri Lanka in May and June.

Advice

Individuals present in affected regions are advised to follow instructions issued by local authorities, particularly evacuation orders, and to keep abreast of weather forecasts. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock an adult over.