Sri Lanka Suffers From Heavy Rain, Flooding and Strong Winds

Sri Lanka remains under the influence of an active Southwest Monsoon, with the Department of Meteorology warning that heavy rain, strong winds, flooding and landslides are likely to continue over the next 24 hours.

The Department has issued an Amber Advisory for heavy rainfall affecting Sabaragamuwa Province and the Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Galle and Matara districts.

It warns that some areas could receive more than 100 mm of rainfall before 11.30 a.m. on August 4.

Heavy Rain to Persist

Meteorologists say the active Southwest Monsoon will continue to generate persistent rain and windy conditions across much of southwestern Sri Lanka.

The latest advisory highlights that the highest rainfall is expected across many districts and regions.

Sabaragamuwa Province
Kandy District
Nuwara Eliya District
Galle District
Matara District

The Department also reported exceptionally high rainfall during the previous 24 hours, with the highest recordings being:

Nuwaraeliya District, a tourism hotspot received 191 milimeter rainfall in its Canyon region, whilst Laxaparan, Norton, Castleriegh, Kotmale and Dickoya, are the other areas of the district that received over 120 to 180 milimeter rain.

Roads leading to Nuwara-eliya has come under closure or partial closure following landslides.

“It’s extremely difficult here, we even can’t go out” said a resident of the Nuwara-eliya Town via telephone.

Flooding Already Being Reported

The impact of the weather is already being felt across the Central Province.

Videos circulating on social media show powerful floodwaters rushing through the Getambe area near Hotel Ganga Addara in Kandy, once again a tourist hotsport.

The flooding has inundated roads and nearby properties.

Authorities have also begun evacuating residents living on both banks of the Mahaweli River in the Gampola area after river levels rose rapidly due to continuous rainfall.

The Disaster Management Centre has advised residents in flood-prone and landslide-risk areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation instructions if issued.

Schools Closed Owing

As a precautionary measure, the Chief Secretary of the Central Province has announced that all schools in Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts will remain closed on August 4.

This is owing to the continuing heavy rainfall and the increased risk of flooding, landslides and transport disruptions.

Strong Wind Advisory Issued

In addition to heavy rain, the Department of Meteorology has also issued an Amber Advisory for Strong Winds.

Strong winds of 40–50 km/h are expected at times acrossm North Central Province, North Western Province, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Souther and Trinocamalee District in the East.

The advisory remains valid until 11.30 a.m. on August 4.

Marine Warning

The Department has also warned that sea areas from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota will be very rough, with gusty winds reaching 60–70 km/h.

Fishing and naval communities have been advised not to venture into these waters until further notice.

Weather.com Forecast

Forecast models from Weather.com indicate that the unsettled weather pattern will continue throughout the next 24 hours.

Repeated rain bands are expected to move across the island, with the heaviest showers concentrated over the Central Highlands, the western slopes, and the south-western districts.

Cloudy skies and occasional gusty winds are expected across much of the country.

Possible Hazards

According to the Department of Meteorology, the prevailing weather could result in, Flash flooding in low-lying areas, Landslides and rockfalls in hilly regions, Falling trees and broken branches, Damage to roofs, power and communication lines, paddy fields, banana and papaya plantations.

It also says boats and harbor facilities may face damage owing to coastal inundation in low-lying areas near the sea.

Safety Advice

Authorities advise the public to:

Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rain.
Stay away from swollen rivers, streams and flooded roads.
Be alert for landslide warnings, especially in hill country districts.
Secure loose roofing materials and outdoor objects.
Avoid standing under large trees during strong winds.
Keep away from fallen electricity lines.
Fishermen and small craft operators should remain ashore until sea conditions improve.
Follow updates issued by the Department of Meteorology and the Disaster Management Centre.

Outlook for the Next 24 Hours

The next 24 hours are expected to remain challenging as the active Southwest Monsoon continues to influence Sri Lanka’s weather.

Heavy rain exceeding 100 mm, strong winds, localized flooding and landslide risks are expected to persist, particularly across the Central Highlands, Sabaragamuwa, and the southern and south-western regions.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel where conditions are hazardous, and closely monitor official weather and disaster management advisories.