Low-pressure area may develop as heavy rain continues across Sri Lanka

A low-level atmospheric disturbance near Sri Lanka could develop into a low-pressure area over the next few days, bringing further heavy rain to several parts of the country, Department of Meteorology Director (Forecasting and Decision Support) M.M.P. Mendis said.

Mendis said cloudy conditions were likely over much of the island, with showers or thundershowers expected in several areas.

Heavy rainfall of around 100 mm could occur in parts of the Northern, North-Central, North-Western, Western, Sabaragamuwa and Central provinces, as well as in the Galle and Matara districts, he said.

The public has been advised to closely follow weather advisories issued by the Department of Meteorology.

Mendis urged people living along the western slopes of the central hills, in river valleys and in landslide-prone areas to remain particularly vigilant.

The wet weather is expected to continue during the next few days.

Mendis said the Department was also monitoring the possibility of another low-pressure area developing near the Andaman Islands around 23 November. Fishermen and maritime communities have been advised to pay close attention to further weather warnings.

Meanwhile, heavy rain has disrupted daily life in parts of the Batticaloa District, with several roads inundated.

Heavy rainfall was reported in Batticaloa, Kattankudy, Ariyampathy, Valaichchenai, Vakarai, Kokkadicholai and surrounding areas.

Around 10 houses were also reportedly damaged following a lightning incident in the Kattankudy area.

In the central hills, the opening of spill gates at the Ambewela reservoir resulted in flooding near the Ambewela railway station. Water released from the reservoir has increased flows downstream, inundating several estate houses in the Lindula area.

Heavy rain in Norton Bridge has also caused the Wimalasurendra reservoir to begin spilling.

The Disaster Management Centre, meanwhile, warned residents along the Uma Oya to exercise caution between Daragala in Welimada and the Uma Oya reservoir following heavy rainfall in the catchment.

The centre said water levels in the Uma Oya were rising intermittently and urged residents using or living close to the river to remain alert.