Colombo, Sri Lanka – In light of ongoing heavy rainfall, several districts in Sri Lanka are facing severe risks, including the potential for landslides and flooding. The National Building Research Organization (NBRO) has issued a red alert for landslides in the Kandy, Matale, and Nuwara Eliya districts, urging residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate immediately.
The NBRO has identified multiple Divisional Secretariats in the Kandy, Matale, and Nuwara Eliya districts as high-risk areas for landslides due to the continuing downpours. The public is advised to evacuate from the following locations:
- Kandy District: Harispattuwa, Medadumbara, Gagawata Korala, Udu Dumbara, Doluwa, Yatinuwara, Udapalatha, Pathahewaheta, Agunuwara, Pathadumbara, Delthota.
- Matale District: Ukuwela, Yatawatta, Ratthota, Wilgamuwa, Ambangaga Korala, Laggala Pallegama, Pallepola, Naula.
- Nuwara Eliya District: Walapane.
In addition, the NBRO has issued landslide risk advisories for 10 other districts: Badulla, Galle, Matara, Kalutara, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Matale, Kegalle, Ratnapura, and Kurunegala. The situation remains critical, and authorities are urging the public to remain alert and monitor their surroundings for any signs of instability, such as cracks in the ground, falling rocks, or sudden changes in nearby water levels.
The Disaster Management Center (DMC) has also warned of the heightened risk of floods and landslides in these areas, advising residents in risk zones to take immediate precautions. The DMC is urging the public to stay in safe locations and cooperate with search and rescue teams if disaster strikes.
Additionally, the DMC has urged those in danger zones to call the emergency hotline 117 for assistance or to report any information related to the ongoing weather emergency.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation and will provide further updates as necessary. The public is urged to stay informed and heed the warnings issued by the relevant agencies.
