Sri Lanka Navy readies 171 relief teams as monsoon rains threaten floods

Following the development of a low-pressure area in the Andaman Sea, the Sri Lankan Navy announced that 171 disaster-relief teams are on standby, with 14 more already deployed to the Southern and Western provinces. The move comes as the Department of Meteorology cautioned that the prevailing Southwest Monsoon may produce heavy rain in multiple parts of the country. A red warning was also issued for strong winds and rough seas, particularly threatening multi-day fishing boats.

The navy emphasized that the teams are prepared to support affected residents and respond swiftly to any flood-related emergencies. These precautionary steps are intended to mitigate potential damage and protect vulnerable coastal communities.