- Note that the above image is AI generated
As torrential rains batter the island, rescue teams race against time, battling landslides and overflowing reservoirs in a desperate struggle to save lives.
Sri Lanka remains under severe weather conditions as heavy rainfall, rising floodwaters and continuous landslides disrupt daily life across multiple districts. The persistent low-pressure system remains anchored over the island, pulling in moisture-heavy winds and generating repeated waves of intense rainfall. Soil across the highlands is fully saturated, making slopes unstable, while major reservoirs are nearing or exceeding capacity.
LIVE UPDATES
11:26 AM — 31 Deaths Reported Nationwide
Authorities have confirmed that the national death toll has risen to 31 due to landslides, flooding and structural collapses linked to the adverse weather since November 17. The number of missing persons remains unclear as rescue operations continue in remote, hard-hit areas.
10:55 AM — Public Urged to Report All Weather Emergencies to 117
The Disaster Management Centre has issued an urgent reminder requesting the public to report any weather-related emergencies through the 117 hotline. This includes landslides, flooding, fallen trees, property damage and stranded individuals. Officials say immediate reporting will help teams respond faster as conditions continue to worsen across several districts.
10:35 AM — 23 Passengers Rescued After Bus Floods in Kumbukkana
A terrifying incident unfolded in Kumbukkana when a passenger bus became trapped in rising floodwaters. Twenty-three passengers were successfully rescued by emergency teams. Authorities say the water level surged unexpectedly, leaving the bus immobilized mid-route. No serious injuries were reported, but officials warn that more sudden floods are expected throughout the day.
10:10 AM — Why This Weather System Has Intensified
Experts confirm that the deep low-pressure zone dominating Sri Lanka’s atmosphere is continuing to strengthen. Moist winds from surrounding sea areas are feeding into the system without interruption. This is causing repeated rainfall over central, Uva, Sabaragamuwa and eastern regions, with no time for the ground to dry. The risk of landslides remains at its highest level.
10:05 AM — Polonnaruwa–Batticaloa Road Closed
The Polonnaruwa–Batticaloa road remains completely shut due to unstable ground conditions. Motorists are being directed to use train services until a safety assessment is completed.
10:00 AM — 26 Deaths Reported Nationwide
Authorities have now confirmed at least 26 fatalities linked to landslides, flash floods and collapsing structures. More individuals remain missing as rescue teams attempt to enter cut-off areas.
9:55 AM — Badulla Landslides Leave 11 Dead
In the Badulla District, 11 deaths have been confirmed following major landslides. Several others are missing, and unstable slopes are forcing rescue teams to proceed with extreme caution.
9:40 AM — Train Services Face Severe Disruptions
Train services on the Matale line remain suspended after a landslide buried a section of track. The Kelani Valley Line has experienced additional delays due to fallen trees. Upcountry routes are operating on limited schedules.
9:25 AM — Bentota Old Bridge Suffers Structural Collapse
The right side of the Bentota old bridge has collapsed due to continuous rainfall undermining its support structures. Engineers are assessing damage while the area remains closed to all traffic.
9:05 AM — Colombo–Kandy Road Still Closed
The Colombo–Kandy main road remains closed indefinitely. Authorities warn that ground instability along the stretch makes reopening unsafe.
8:45 AM — Kandy–Nuwara Eliya road closed at Gerandi Ella
The Kandy–Nuwara Eliya road is closed from the Gerandi Ella section following a landslide threat. Motorists are being urged to delay hill-country travel.
8:20 AM — Flood Warning After Senanayake Samudra Reservoir Fills
A flood alert is in effect after the Senanayake Samudra reservoir reached full capacity. Residents downstream are advised to remain vigilant for rapid water level changes.
8:00 AM — Heavy Rains Expected to Continue
The Department of Meteorology projects rainfall above 200 mm in several districts. Floods and landslides are likely as the system intensifies.
7:40 AM — A/L Examinations Postponed
The government has postponed A/L exams scheduled for the coming days due to unsafe travel conditions and widespread disruptions.
7:20 AM — Upcountry Train Services Restricted
Upcountry rail services continue with restricted operations due to unstable ground conditions and clearance work along slopes.
Government Response
Parliament held an emergency session to coordinate national relief and rescue operations. The tri-forces and disaster relief teams are active across the most affected districts. Evacuation centers have been opened in high-risk areas.
Public Advisory
- Avoid unnecessary travel through hill-country routes or flood-prone areas.
- Report emergencies to the official 117 hotline immediately.
- Keep essential supplies ready and stay alert to official warnings.
Meteorological experts confirm that the intense weather system shows no signs of abating. The deep low-pressure zone is strengthening, continuously fed by moist winds from the sea. This is causing relentless rainfall over the Central, Uva, Sabaragamuwa, and Eastern provinces, with forecasts predicting over 200 mm of rain in several districts. With the ground utterly saturated and no time to dry, the risk of further floods and landslides remains at its highest level. The public is advised to avoid all non-essential travel, especially in hill-country and flood-prone areas, and to stay alert to official warnings as this national crisis continues to unfold.
SOURCE :- DAILY MIRROR
