Strong winds, rains take four lives in Sri Lanka

At least four people were killed and over 10,000 affected as strong winds and heavy rains lashed out across Sri Lanka over the weekend, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said in its latest update on Monday.

DMC Spokesperson Pradeep Kodippili said the four dead had been reported from Kalutara and Galle in southern Sri Lanka.

He said heavy rains had caused flash floods in Badulla, Kalutara, Galle and Kegalle, in the south, and thousands of families had been evacuated to safer shelters.

Till Monday morning, waters were receding but warnings would remain in place as more rains were expected during the day, Xinhua reported quoting Kodippili.

Home Minister Vajira Abeywardena said government officials had been alerted to respond to a disaster situation’ if rains continue during the week.

He said dry rations had been distributed to people who had been evacuated from their homes due to the flash floods.

The Meteorology Department in its latest weather update warned that more rains were expected in many parts of the island on Monday and Tuesday.

“Showers or thunder showers may occur at several places in northern, western and eastern provinces and in Galle, Matara and Kalutara districts,” the Meteorology Department said.

Heavy falls of about 100 mm can be expected at some places in the Eastern, Southern, Central Sabaragamuwa, Uva and Western Provinces, the Department added.