11 Apr 2022 | 11:14 AM UTC
Sri Lanka: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least April 14
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms forecast across much of Sri Lanka through at least April 14. Disruptions ongoing.
Event
Severe weather is forecast to continue across much of Sri Lanka through at least April 14. The Sri Lankan Department of Meteorology has warned that due to a low-level atmospheric disturbance persisting in the country's vicinity, heavy rainfall is likely across much of Sri Lanka in the coming days. An amber advisory for heavy rainfall has been issued for Eastern, Uva, Central, and North Central provinces from April 11 through April 12. Heavy showers bringing rainfall amounts of 10 cm (4 inches) are expected in these provinces. Over 7.5 cm (3 inches) of rainfall is likely in parts of North Western, Western, and Sabaragamuwa provinces, as well as Galle and Matara districts in Southern Province. The heavy rainfall may be accompanied by thunderstorms, strong winds, and lightning.
As of late April 10, the Sri Lanka Disaster Management Center (DMC) reported three fatalities due to falling trees in Bulathkohupitiya and Imbulpe in the Kegalle and Ratnapura districts of Sabaragamuwa Province. The DMC has reported that across the country, 471 people have been affected by the inclement weather, with 168 people having to be evacuated to safer locations. There have been 39 homes destroyed and 82 others partially damaged in weather-related incidents. Further adverse weather in the coming days will likely lead to further disruptions and damages due to flooding, landslides, and other weather-related incidents.
Hazardous Conditions
Thunderstorms will be capable of producing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and lightning across Sri Lanka in the coming days. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger 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.
Transport
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.
Advice
Confirm flights. 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 delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
