Saturday Jan 10, 2026
Saturday Jan 10, 2026
Friday, 9 January 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Sri Lanka is preparing for severe weather conditions as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is expected to cross the island tonight, raising the risk of heavy rainfall and landslides, according to the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO).
The Department of Meteorology has advised that the system, currently located southeast of Sri Lanka, is likely to move westward across the south-western Bay of Bengal before turning northwest and crossing the island between Hambantota and Kalmunai between 5.30 p.m. and 11.30 p.m. on 9 January.
Intense rainfall associated with the system could increase landslide risk, particularly along the eastern slopes of the Central Highlands. As a precaution, landslide alerts have been issued for several Divisional Secretariat Divisions, with residents in high-risk areas advised to relocate to safer locations before the afternoon of January 9, especially in areas showing signs of soil movement, steep slopes, valleys and man-made embankments.
In the Kandy District, alerts have been issued for Minipe, Medadumbara, Panwila, Doluwa, Delthota and Ududumbara. Areas under warning in the Badulla District include Kandaketiya, Passara, Badulla, Lunugala, Haputale, Ella, Bandarawela, Hali Ela, Welimada, Meegahakivula and Uva Paranagama.
In the Matale District, Wilgamuwa, Ambanganga Korale, Ratthota, Naula, Ukuwela and Laggala Pallegama have been placed on alert, while in the Nuwara Eliya District warnings cover Walapane, Nildandahinna, Mathurata, Hanguranketha and Nuwara Eliya.
The NBRO said residents should remain in safe locations if landslides occur until inspections are completed and further instructions are issued. It said updates would be provided as weather conditions evolve.
Meanwhile, the Tri Forces have been placed on standby to support emergency response and recovery operations related to floods, landslides and adverse weather. The public has been advised to remain vigilant, limit travel in high-risk areas and seek assistance through emergency hotlines, including 117, if required.
