Mini Storm Ravages Colombo and Surrounding Districts, Causing Widespread Damage

A sudden mini storm accompanied by strong winds and heavy rainfall swept through Colombo;Sri Lanka and several neighboring districts today, leaving a trail of destruction and disruption across the region.

The violent weather event resulted in multiple injuries, property damage, and significant interruptions to daily life. At a garment factory in Dematagoda, the collapse of a boundary wall injured three individuals, including two women, highlighting the storm’s severity. In the Grandpass area, a large tree toppled near the police station, damaging six residential houses. Similar incidents of fallen trees and debris were reported in Maligawatta, where several vehicles sustained damage.

Railway services faced major setbacks as fallen trees and downed power lines obstructed all principal lines, including the Coastal, Main, Chilaw, and Kelani Valley routes. Railway authorities have deployed teams to clear the tracks and restore services as quickly as possible.

The Ceylon Electricity Board reported widespread power outages across affected districts. Emergency crews were dispatched to repair damaged lines, and the public was urged to report outages promptly through the CEBCare app or hotline.

The Department of Meteorology issued urgent warnings, forecasting continued heavy rainfall exceeding 100mm in the next 24 hours, particularly in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Galle, and Matara districts. Residents were advised to exercise caution, avoid travel in vulnerable areas, and prepare for possible flooding and further storm activity.

Over 1,700 people across nine districts have been impacted by the storm, with local authorities coordinating relief efforts to assist those affected.

In addition to the storm’s immediate effects, the Department of Meteorology issued a Red Alert for rough seas and strong winds in coastal areas from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai and from Galle to Pottuvil. Wind speeds are expected to reach 60–70 km/h, prompting a strong advisory for fishermen and coastal communities to remain ashore and take necessary precautions.

This unexpected storm underscores the growing challenges posed by extreme weather events in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the need for heightened preparedness and rapid response mechanisms.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge the public to stay informed through official channels as recovery efforts proceed.

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