News Today: Heavy rain eases in Sri Lanka

The Meteorology Department of Sri Lanka has officially announced that the Heavy Rain Eases in Sri Lanka June 2025 shows a gradual reduction in rainfall beginning today, especially in the Southwestern regions of the country. However, caution is still urged due to occasional strong winds ranging from 30 to 40 km/h, particularly over the western slopes of the central hills and the Northern, North-Central, North-Western, Hambantota, and Trincomalee Districts.

According to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) and News Today, over 10,270 individuals from 2,757 families have been affected by the recent torrential rains and extreme weather. While no fatalities have been reported, 19 individuals have sustained injuries. Regarding displacement, 532 people from 139 families are staying with relatives, and 147 people from 35 families are being sheltered in three government-approved centers.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has responded swiftly by allocating Rs. 1 billion to aid recovery and relief operations. According to K.G. Dharmatilaka, Additional Secretary to the Defence Ministry, this fund includes Rs. 2.5 million for completely destroyed homes. Financial assistance for partially damaged houses will be based on the assessed level of destruction. For families affected by fatalities or full disabilities, Rs. 1 million will be provided. Those with partial disabilities will be compensated according to medical evaluations.

Distribution of relief will be managed by District Secretaries and the National Disaster Relief Services Centre, ensuring transparency and speed.

Meanwhile, the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) reported 55,940 power outages caused by recent heavy rains and winds. Most outages have already been addressed, with emergency teams still working to restore full connectivity.

The sluice gates of several key reservoirs—including Weheragala, Kukule Ganga, Upper Kotmale, and Deduru Oya—have been opened. Authorities are urging residents in low-lying downstream areas to stay vigilant due to possible localized flooding.