Sri Lanka: At least 100 killed, 99 missing in rain-triggered mudslides

27 May 2017 12:45 PM IST

Last May, a massive landslide killed more than 100 people in central Sri Lanka.

Although the weather has cleared, more rains are forecast for Sunday and Monday, threatening to bring more misery to over 100,000 displaced in the country's western and southern regions. (Photo: File)
Residents of Wehangalla village near Agalawatte were marooned as floodwaters swamped most of the buildings up to the roof.
Mudslides have become common during the monsoon season in the tropical Indian Ocean island
Authorities issued fresh evacuation orders for those living downstream of two major rivers, citing a risk of flooding even though the rains had subsided.
The Sri Lankan government appealed to the UN and other countries for help with rescue and relief measures.
The military used large armored vehicles and boats to transport people to safety.
The Disaster Management Center said more than 2,900 people have been displaced.

Sri Lanka has appealed for outside help as the death toll from floods and mudslides on Saturday rose to 100 with 99 others missing.

Last May, a massive landslide killed more than 100 people in central Sri Lanka.