24 May 2018 | 09:12 AM UTC
Sri Lanka: Flooding continues May 24 /update 1
Floods and landslides caused by monsoon rains continue as of May 24; death toll rises
Event
Heavy monsoon rains continue to batter the country as of Thursday, May 24, provoking flooding and landslides. As of May 24, the monsoon death toll has risen to nine. According to the Disaster Management Center, over 38,000 people have been impacted, including 24,000 who have been displaced. The most affected areas include the provinces of Sabaragamuwa, Western, Central, and North Western.
Continued heavy rain and thunderstorms are forecast in these areas in the coming days.
Context
Monsoon rains typically hits 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 over an adult.
