Heavy Rains Hit Puttalam And Ratnapura

The Meteorology Department says that the existing low-pressure in the Bay of Bengal could develop into a depression.

The Department said that as a result the prevailing rain could be further enhanced in the next few days.

In the last 24 hours, ending at 8:30 this morning, the highest rainfall of 122.7mm was reported in Mellawa in Puttalam.

Several areas including Wanaathavillu, Arachchikattuwa are still under water.

Train services on the Puttalam line that were disrupted yesterday following the overflow of Hamilton canal have been restored today.

Meanwhile, several areas of Ratnapura is underwater, due to prevailing rains.

The affected residents have been sent to safe locations with the intervention of the DMC officials.

The Irrigation Department warned that people living close to low lying areas in the banks of Gin, Kalu, and Kelani rivers to be vigilant for flash floods.

The landslide alert issued for Kegalle, Ratnapura, Kalutara, Galle and Nuwara Eliya is still active.

Meanwhile, the Disaster Management Center said 124,733 persons in 18 districts are affected due to the prevailing inclement weather.

It added that the death toll has increased to 12.

The DMC said that displaced persons are given shelter at 229 welfare centers.