The National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) urged evacuees on Monday not to return to their homes until safety inspections are completed, warning that landslide risks remain high in several districts following days of heavy rainfall.
Dr. Wasantha Senadeera, a senior scientist at the NBRO, said residents should wait for officials from the agency’s district offices to conduct assessments and issue formal clearance before attempting to return.
He advised those from high-risk areas and currently staying in temporary shelters to remain there until officials provide clear instructions and confirm that conditions are safe.
“Residents in severely unsafe locations should continue staying in evacuation centres,” he said.
Landslide warnings and red-alert evacuation notices issued for 70 Divisional Secretariat divisions across seven districts have been extended, Senadeera added.
He said saturated soil in affected regions continues to increase the likelihood of landslides, rockfalls and embankment failures in the coming days.
Senadeera also urged the public to evacuate immediately if they detect unusual ground sounds or notice sudden changes in natural water springs, warning that such signs could precede a landslide.
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