Minor flooding hits Southern Province amidst South-Western monsoon

By By Rathindra Kuruwita 

As heavy rains continue to lash the southern province due to the South-Western monsoon, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) on Friday reported minor flooding in multiple areas. The incessant rainfall has caused rivers, including Kalu, Gin, Benthara, and Nilwala, to overflow, leading to localized flooding incidents.

The DMC has taken proactive measures to address the situation, deploying army personnel to the Galle and Matara districts to assist residents who may be affected by the floods. Authorities are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of those living in the affected regions.

According to data from the Meteorological Department, the highest recorded rainfall within the 24-hour period ending at 8 a.m. on Friday was in Kukule Ganga, with an impressive 120 millimeters of rainfall.

Deputy Director of Weather Forecasting and Disaster Management, M.M.P Mendis, said that the wet weather conditions are expected to persist until the end of the first week of October. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their properties and loved ones during this extended period of rainfall.

The National Building Research Organization (NBRO) has issued early landslide warnings for several areas across seven districts. These warnings are set to remain in effect until further notice. The districts under the landslide warning include Galle, Hambantota, Kalutara, Kandy, Kegalle, Matara, and Ratnapura. Residents and local authorities in these districts are urged to stay informed and prepared for any potential landslide threats.