India, Sri Lanka: Severe weather forecast across Sri Lanka and southern India through at least Nov. 14 /update 3

Event

Heavy rain and thunderstorms are forecast to affect Sri Lanka and southern India through at least Nov. 14. The affected areas include most of Sri Lanka as well as Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana states and Puducherry Union Territory in India.

Reports indicate at least 20 fatalities in Sri Lanka and 12 fatalities in Tamil Nadu State, India, due to floods, landslides, and lightning strikes in recent days. More than 5,000 people have been displaced across Sri Lanka. Additional rain over the coming days will likely exacerbate the current situation.

Government Advisories
As of Nov. 10, the Indian Meteorological Department has issued red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) weather warnings for thunderstorms, strong wind, and heavy rain for coastal Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu states as well as Puducherry Union Territory, while orange heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings are in place across western Andhra Pradesh State. The red thunderstorm, strong wind, and heavy rain warnings are likely to continue through Nov. 11, with the warning area extending to the entire Andhra Pradesh State as well as Tamil Nadu State and Puducherry Union Territory. Yellow thunderstorm, strong wind, and heavy rain warnings are in effect for the rest of the affected area through at least Nov. 14.

The Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology has issued red (the highest level on a four-tier scale) heavy rain warnings for Northern, North Western, and North Central provinces; heavy rainfall of more than 15 cm (6 inches) is likely. Orange heavy rain warnings are in place across the Central, northern Eastern, Sabaragamuwa, western Southern, Uva, and Western provinces; heavy rain of up to 10 cm (4 inches) is likely across portions of the affected area. Forecast models indicate that rain is likely across western Sri Lanka through at least Nov. 13. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. As of Nov. 10, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu State, many tunnels are impassable while authorities have closed Vyasarpadi and Madley subways and the Kakkan Bridge due to flooding. The Thirumalaipillai Road towards Valluvar Kottam is impassable due to damage. Landslides could block roads and railways. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Disruptions to rail transport are possible where floodwaters inundate tracks. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at regional airports.

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

Resources

India Meteorological Department
Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology