AMN/ WEB DESK
The deep depression in the southwest Bay of Bengal continues to wreak havoc across Sri Lanka, claiming 12 lives and leaving two people missing. As of 11:30 pm last night, the system was located 240 km northeast of Trincomalee and is expected to move northwest toward Tamil Nadu, with its impact on the island gradually diminishing. The met department has said that the system will gradually lose intensity and turn into a depression by tomorrow.
The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) reports that over 401,000 people in 24 districts have been affected, with 36,330 individuals seeking refuge in 345 safety shelters. Flooding has damaged over 4,800 acres of paddy fields and 2,054 houses while rising levels in reservoirs have further compounded the crisis.
Flood warnings remain in place for several rivers, including the Mahaweli and Kelani. Authorities urge residents to stay cautious and prioritize safety as relief efforts continue.