3 killed, over 8,000 hit by severe weather in Sri Lanka
Colombo, May 20: Three people were killed and over 8,000 affected as heavy rains and strong winds lashed across Sri Lanka, prompting disaster management officials to be on alert for possible evacuations, the Disaster Management Centre said on Sunday.
The three deaths, caused by lightning, were reported from the eastern district of Trincomalee and in the lower central hills of Badulla, Xinhua news agency reported.
At least 252 people had been evacuated to safer locations since last week while over 200 houses were partially or fully damaged due to the severe weather.
Sri Lanka is facing its annual southwest monsoons with the Meteorological Department in its latest weather report warning of more rains in several districts across the country in the coming days.
"The southwest monsoon conditions are getting established over the island. Very heavy falls, about 150 mm, can be expected at some places in Sabaragamuwa province while heavy falls, above 100 mm, can be expected at some places, particularly in Western Central and Uva provinces and in Galle and Matara districts," the latest weather report said.
The Meteorological Department warned the public to take adequate precautions to minimize damage caused by lightning.
Over 200 people were killed and 78 people missing when the southwest monsoons caused severe floods and landslides across Sri Lanka last year.
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Arrive 3 hours early: Airlines urge passengers as centre tightens airport security after Pak attack
New Delhi: Airlines have asked passengers to reach airports at least three hours before departure after the Centre increased security measures in response to Pakistan’s ongoing attack, reported India Today.
According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, all passengers will now face a Secondary Ladder Point Check (SLPC) before boarding. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has directed all airports and airlines to step up security.
Air India said, “Passengers are advised to arrive at least three hours prior to departure. Check-in closes 75 minutes before departure.” Akasa Air and IndiGo issued similar advisories, asking passengers to allow more time for security checks.
All passengers must carry valid photo ID and will undergo secondary checks before boarding. Visitor entry to terminals has been banned, and Air Marshals will be deployed as required.
The moves come as India’s defence systems shot down Pakistani missiles and drones in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. At least 21 airports are shut till May 10, and several flights are cancelled. Civilian aircraft are avoiding airspace over Pakistan and India’s western corridor, data from Flightradar24 shows.
