– The public has been urged to exercise extreme caution when undertaking planned excursions to the central hill country and other rain-affected areas amid heavy rainfall and landslide warnings issued for several districts.Director (Awareness) of the Disaster Management Centre Pradeep Kodippili said people planning to travel to these areas should remain vigilant and check the prevailing weather and road conditions before setting out.“We are receiving frequent inquiries from people who have planned excursions to the central hill country. Given the prevailing heavy rains, it is important to remain alert and be mindful of the situation,” he said.

Heavy rainfall is currently affecting the Central Province, Kurunegala District, Western Province and areas in and around Ratnapura.Landslide warnings have been issued for Badulla, Kandy, Kegalle, Kurunegala, Nuwara Eliya and Ratnapura districts, with the risk of earth slips and rockfalls posing a threat to motorists travelling through these areas.Kodippili urged those planning trips to check road conditions by contacting the Disaster Management Centre hotline on 117 before travelling.

He also advised the public to pay close attention to weather forecasts and official warnings, particularly when travelling through mountainous areas vulnerable to landslides.The Department of Meteorology has forecast that the prevailing rainy conditions could intensify further until October 25.In view of the adverse weather conditions, the public has been urged to reconsider planned excursions and avoid unnecessary travel through vulnerable areas until conditions improve.