Heavy rain & flooding impact voting in parts of island

Rainy conditions are currently affecting parts of Mannar, Batticaloa, Galle, and Matara districts, leading to a drop in voter turnout at some of the polling centers.

In Matara district, flooding has also been reported.

Director General of the Meteorology Department, Athula Karunanayake, said that inland areas across the country will see afternoon and evening showers, with rainfall expected to move towards coastal areas later in the day.

Heavy rainfall of approximately 100mm is anticipated in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, North-Western, Eastern, and Uva provinces, as well as in the Galle and Matara districts. Other regions can expect 30-50mm of rain.

Rains are likely to last for about an hour, accompanied by temporary localized winds. Mr. Karunanayake urged the public to take precautions against lightning, particularly by avoiding the use of electronics and staying out of open areas.

He added that similar weather conditions are expected to continue tomorrow.