CODE RED : Weather warning issued for heavy rain

Colombo (News 1st)The Met. Department has issued a RED warning for Heavy rain. The warning which was issued at 7am today (Dec 23) will be in effect for a period of 24 hours. The Met. Department forecasts very heavy falls of about 100-150 mm for areas in the Northern province as well as the Polonnaruwa and Trincomalee districts. Heavy falls about 75-100 mm are likely at some places in Central province as well as in the Ampara, Batticaloa, and Anuradhapura districts. Fairly heavy falls of about 75 mm are likely at some places in Sabaragamuwa province. Fairly heavy falls of about 50 mm can be expected in the Western province as well as Galle and Matara. DAMAGE EXPECTED:  Heavy rains may trigger landslides in hilly areas.  Water inundation in low lying areas  Uprooting of large avenue trees. ACTION SUGGESTED:  People living in hilly areas (particularly landslide-prone areas) are requested to be vigilant.  Drivers and people using roads in the hilly areas are requested to be vigilant.  Take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by lightning activity.  Beware of fallen trees and power lines.  Be alert on the advisories issued by the Department of Meteorology.  For emergency assistance contact the local disaster management authorities.