Authorities have maintained the highest-level landslide evacuation warnings in 13 Divisional Secretariat divisions across six districts as heavy and unsettled weather continues to affect parts of Sri Lanka.
The National Building Research Institute (NBRO) said landslide warnings remain in effect across 10 districts, with Level 3 red warnings issued for areas facing an elevated risk of landslides.
NBRO Senior Scientist Hasali Hemasinghe said the red evacuation warnings cover Neluwa in Galle; Walallawita in Kalutara; Pasbage Korale in Kandy; Mawanella, Deraniyagala, Aranayaka, Yatiyanthota and Dehiowita in Kegalle; Nuwara Eliya, Kotmale East, Kotmale West and Ambagamuwa in Nuwara Eliya; and Ratnapura in Ratnapura District.
Residents in these areas have been advised to remain alert, closely follow instructions issued by authorities and evacuate when directed.
Meanwhile, the Disaster Management Centre reported that 1,616 people belonging to 458 families in 41 Divisional Secretariat divisions across 10 districts have been affected by the prevailing weather.
One person has died while another remains missing following weather-related incidents reported since September 18.
In Gampaha District, strong winds that affected the Biyagama area last night damaged five houses in the Galahitiyawa North Grama Niladhari Division. The electricity distribution network in the area was also damaged.
Authorities said 94 people from 26 affected families are currently staying at three safety centres.
The Department of Meteorology has meanwhile warned that rainfall could become more intense later today. Although conditions may ease somewhat during the daytime, showers are expected to strengthen during the evening and night.
Director of the Forecasting Division Merrill Mendis said intermittent showers are expected across the Central, Sabaragamuwa, Western and North Western provinces, as well as the Galle and Matara districts.
According to the latest weather information, rainfall could increase further tomorrow and the following day.
Authorities have urged residents in landslide-prone locations, low-lying areas and communities near river basins to remain particularly vigilant and monitor official weather and disaster alerts.
Water levels in several major rivers also remain elevated, with minor flooding reported in some locations.
Amid the continuing rainfall, two spill gates at the Polgolla Reservoir and one spill gate at the Kukule Ganga Reservoir have been opened.
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