Avoid trips and picnics due to dangerous weather: NBRO
– Senior Geologist at the National Building Research Organization (NBRO), Dr. Wasantha Senadheera, warned the public to avoid trips and picnics as the country remains in a dangerous situation due to the prevailing extreme weather.Speaking to the media, Dr. Senadheera said landslide evacuation red notices issued to 33 Divisional Secretariat (DS) Divisions in four districts have been further extended.
“In the current disaster situation, the best thing people can do is avoid unnecessary travel and stay in safe locations,” he cautioned.He noted that the NBRO had received several calls from the public asking about the possibility of going on weekend picnics, despite the risks.The red notices were extended after rainfall in some areas of Badulla and Kandy districts exceeded 75mm over the past few days. He also confirmed that landslides were reported in Meegahakivula and Demodara yesterday (11), underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Between November 20 and today (12), the NBRO has received 2,716 requests to inspect potentially dangerous locations, of which 589 inspections have been completed so far.
Dr. Senadheera said that due to ongoing risks and weather forecasts, landslide warnings under Stage 2 will remain in effect for 38 DS Divisions in five districts. Additionally, Stage 1 warnings—issued to alert the public to be vigilant—will continue for 17 DS Divisions in three districts.He urged residents in affected areas to remain alert, as the warnings may change depending on future rainfall.
