SL on high alert as low-pressure area forms in Bay of Bengal, emergency operations ready

By Charithya Kumarasiri 

The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has placed the country on high alert as a low-pressure area develops in the Bay of Bengal, with emergency operations ready for rescue and evacuation if needed.  

Merrill Mendis, Director of the Forecasting Division at the Department of Meteorology, said the system, currently about 700 kilometres from Batticaloa, is expected to reach the eastern coast today (January 8). He warned that the system could intensify into a depression, bringing worsening weather conditions across the island.  

Heavy rainfall and strong winds are expected, particularly in the Northern, North Central, Eastern, Uva, and Central Provinces. The Uva Province may experience rainfall exceeding 100 mm, while the Nuwara Eliya and Matale districts are at high risk on January 9, with similar rainfall forecasts. Wind speeds of 60–70 kmph are anticipated in the Northern, North Central, and Eastern provinces. Meanwhile, the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has issued an Early Landslide Warning, with Red Alerts in effect for Ududumbara in Kandy District, and Nildandahinna and Walapane in Nuwara Eliya District.  

The DMC confirmed that all necessary warnings have been issued, and emergency teams are prepared to evacuate residents depending on the progression of the weather. Authorities have urged people in landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant for early warning signs, including widening cracks in the ground, tilting trees or poles, sudden emergence of springs or muddy water, and blockages or disappearance of water sources. Residents observing such signs are advised to move to safer areas immediately.  

The Department of Meteorology has also cautioned naval and fishing communities against venturing into deep or shallow sea areas from Kankasanthurai to Hambantota via Trincomalee and Pottuvil, as well as from Batticaloa to Hambantota, until further notice.  

Authorities say the situation is under close monitoring and urged the public to follow official advisories, exercise caution, and take necessary precautions over the coming days.