More than 31,000 people across eight districts in Sri Lanka have been affected by the prevailing adverse weather conditions, according to the latest figures released by the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) on Sunday, 24 May 2026. The deteriorating weather pattern has caused widespread disruption to daily life, prompting emergency response protocols across multiple regions.

The DMC's midday update confirmed that families in districts including Galle, Matara, Hambantota, Ratnapura, Kalutara, Colombo, Gampaha, and Kurunegala are experiencing varying degrees of impact from heavy rainfall, strong winds, and associated flooding. Officials have indicated that the situation remains fluid as weather patterns continue to evolve.

Adverse Weather Conditions Prompt Emergency Response

Disaster management officials have activated emergency response teams to coordinate relief efforts in the affected districts. The 31,000 figure represents individuals whose homes, livelihoods, or access to essential services have been compromised by the inclement weather. This includes families temporarily displaced from their homes, those facing property damage, and communities cut off from normal supply routes.

The DMC has been monitoring the situation closely in collaboration with district secretariats and local authorities. Emergency shelters have been established in several locations to accommodate families who have been evacuated from high-risk areas, particularly in low-lying zones prone to flash flooding.

Eight Districts Face Weather-Related Disruption

The coastal districts of Galle, Matara, and Hambantota have experienced some of the heaviest rainfall, with reports of localised flooding in urban centres and rural communities alike. In Ratnapura district, known for its vulnerability to landslides during periods of intense precipitation, authorities have placed several divisional secretariat areas on high alert.

The Western Province districts of Colombo, Gampaha, and Kalutara have also recorded significant weather disruption. Urban flooding in low-lying areas has caused traffic congestion and disrupted public transport networks. Meanwhile, Kurunegala district in the North Western Province has seen agricultural lands affected by excess water accumulation.

DMC Coordinates Relief Operations

The Disaster Management Centre has deployed field teams to conduct damage assessments and coordinate the distribution of relief supplies to affected families. Essential items including dry rations, drinking water, temporary shelter materials, and medical supplies are being distributed through divisional secretariat offices and local government channels.

A DMC spokesperson emphasised that all affected individuals should contact their nearest divisional secretariat or the DMC's 24-hour emergency hotline for assistance. The centre is maintaining constant communication with the Department of Meteorology to receive updated weather forecasts and issue timely warnings to vulnerable communities.

Weather Warnings Remain in Effect

The Department of Meteorology has maintained weather advisories for several districts, warning of continued heavy showers and thunderstorms in the southwestern, western, and sabaragamuwa provinces. Residents in affected areas have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather, and heed evacuation orders issued by local authorities.

The current weather system is part of a broader monsoonal pattern affecting the island. Meteorological experts indicate that while some respite is expected in the coming days, intermittent showers and thunderstorms are likely to continue through the week. Coastal areas should also be alert to rough sea conditions, with fishermen advised against venturing into deep sea waters.

Community Preparedness and Safety Measures

The DMC has urged communities in flood-prone and landslide-risk areas to maintain heightened awareness and follow safety protocols. Families living near riverbanks or in low-lying areas should monitor water levels and be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen. Local authorities have been instructed to keep emergency evacuation routes clear and ensure that temporary shelters are adequately stocked.

Sri Lanka's disaster management infrastructure has improved significantly in recent years, with better early warning systems and coordinated response mechanisms. However, the scale of the current weather event underscores the ongoing challenges faced by communities living in vulnerable geographical areas, particularly during the southwest monsoon season.

As the situation develops, the Disaster Management Centre continues to update the public through its official channels. Residents across the eight affected districts are encouraged to stay informed through reliable sources and cooperate with local authorities to ensure their safety and the safety of their communities during this period of adverse weather.

Source: Ada Derana