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Heavy rains have caused flooding in twelve districts of Sri Lanka, including the capital Colombo. Image: Screenshot Youtube-Video / Newsfirst English

Large parts of Sri Lanka are under water

In Sri Lanka, heavy rains have caused flooding and landslides, killing several people. Heavy rain has also hit southern India.

Heavy rains and flooding have caused several deaths in Sri Lanka. The greater Colombo area has been particularly affected, with many schools closed for safety reasons. At least three people have died in accidents caused by landslides and flooding.

The disaster management agency has taken measures to organise the evacuation of affected areas and to provide assistance. Many roads are impassable, and travelers are advised to exercise caution in the coming days. It is recommended  to closely follow weather warnings and adjust travel plans accordingly, as reported by «The Times of India».

Air traffic could also be affected due to the weather conditions, which would impact international travellers. In rural areas, aid organisations are on the ground to support people who have been forced to leave their homes or whose livelihoods are threatened by the natural disaster.

The region around the Indian city of Chennai is also struggling with heavy rainfall and its effects. Schools and universities will remain closed today (15 October) and IT companies have recommended that their staff work from home. Several flights to and from Chennai have also been cancelled due to the rain.

(TN)