The National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has issued urgent Level 3 Red evacuation warnings for residents in high-risk zones across the Kalutara, Nuwara Eliya, and Ratnapura districts, mandating immediate evacuation to safe locations if continuous heavy rainfall persists.
Under Landslide Early Warning Update valid from 6PM on October 26 to 6 PM on October 27 the red alert specifically covers Bulathsinhala and Dodangoda Divisional Secretariat Divisions in Kalutara, Ambagamuwa Korale and Norwood in Nuwara Eliya, and Kuruwita, Ayagama, Openayake, Elapatha, Pelmadulla and Ratnapura in Ratnapura, where 24-hour rainfall has surpassed 150 mm.
Additionally, Level 2 Amber alerts signifying 24-hour rainfall exceeding 100 mm with readiness to evacuate have been extended to divisions across nine districts, including Gampaha, Kandy, Kegalle, and Kurunegala, while Level 1 Yellow watch advisories remain in place for areas receiving over 75 mm of rain. Authorities urge the public in all slope and valley zones to remain highly vigilant for pre-landslide indicators such as ground cracking, tilting trees, and sudden muddy springs, and to strictly follow disaster management instructions. (Newswire)