The effects of the severe Cyclonic Storm ‘Mocha’ on Sri Lanka has been reduced to a great extent since it has landed in-between southeast Bangladesh and north Myanmar coasts on Sunday afternoon.
However, the Meteorology Department stated that the wind speed in the sea areas will increase up to 55-60 kmph at times and it is dangerous to engage in fishing activities in the sea areas around the island. Therefore, naval and fishing communities should be vigilant regarding the bad weather conditions.
Meanwhile, several spells of showers will occur in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and North-Western Provinces and in the Galle and Matara Districts.
By yesterday morning 1,872 persons from 428 families were affected by the bad weather conditions experienced in the country during the last few days.
However, the Meteorology Department predicted improved weather conditions with lesser rain.
Minor flood situations were reported in Thalgahagoda and Panadugama a flood alert was issued for Kalawellawa.Several areas in the Galle, Hambantota, Kalutara, Matara and Ratnapura District were told to be on alert for landslides if the rains continues.
Meanwhile, the Hindustan Times states that rescuers on Monday evacuated about 1,000 people trapped by seawater 3.6 metres (12 feet) deep along western Myanmar’s coast after Cyclonic Storm “Mocha” injured hundreds and cut off communications in one of Asia’s least developed countries.
Strong winds injured more than 700 of about 20,000 people who were sheltering in sturdier buildings on the highlands of Sittwe township such as monasteries, pagodas and schools, according to a leader of the Rakhine Youths Philanthropic Association in Sittwe.
At least three deaths had been reported earlier in Myanmar, and several injuries were reported in neighboring Bangladesh, which was spared the predicted direct hit.
Mocha made landfall near Sittwe township with winds blowing up to 209 kilometers (130 miles) per hour, Myanmar’s Meteorological Department said. By Monday morning, it was downgraded from its severe status and was steadily weakening over land, according to the India Meteorological Department.