President Ranil Wickremesinghe has instructed officials to provide immediate relief to those affected by the recent inclement weather and to continue these efforts until the situation improves, the President’s Media Division said.

According to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), eight deaths have been reported across the island as of yesterday (27). Seven people died in accidents caused by strong winds, and one person died in a boat capsizing.

The President has directed that compensation be provided to the families of the deceased, allocating Rs. 250,000 for each victim. The PMD said an advance payment of Rs. 25,000 has already been arranged.

As of yesterday (27), 42,640 people belonging to 11,326 families have been affected by the inclement weather. The President has instructed the DMC to ensure all necessary facilities are provided, with special attention to health and hygiene.