By Rathindra Kuruwita
Sri Lanka is now experiencing heavy rainfall concentrated over brief periods, which has led to an increase in earth slips and landslides, according to Dr Gamini Jayatissa, Director of the Landslide Research Division at the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO).
Dr Jayatissa noted that recent downpours in Kegalle resulted in around 60 landslide incidents. “We possess extensive data on the rainfall volume required to trigger landslides. However, after reviewing recent data, we discovered that affected areas had not received the usual rainfall threshold. Instead, these areas experienced intense rainfall over a very short time, leading to these disasters,” he explained.
Dr Jayatissa emphasised that the volume of rain within 30 minutes or an hour can be as critical as the 24-hour total. To monitor rainfall patterns, the NBRO has installed 330 automatic rain gauges across the country, which continuously record precipitation levels.
“Both the Meteorology Department and the Irrigation Department also have automatic rain gauges. We review all these readings to predict landslide risks in mountainous regions. Climate change is driving these short, intense rains and contributing to the increase in extreme weather events,” he said.
Local government bodies have a vital role in mitigating loss of life and property damage, Dr Jayatissa added. “The NBRO can forecast and identify landslide-prone areas, but it’s futile if local authorities permit construction in these zones without considering NBRO recommendations. Building approvals should consult NBRO assessments, as local authorities have sometimes overlooked our guidelines in the past,” he said.
Highlighting landslides as one of the deadliest natural disasters, Dr Jayatissa noted that many occur during the night or early morning, when people are least prepared. “We all need to prioritise human safety and exercise greater responsibility. Local councils should engage with NBRO when permitting construction in landslide-prone areas, and we must enhance our coordination with these bodies,” he urged.
He further advised citizens to exercise caution when building homes or businesses in areas with known landslide risks.
from The Island https://ift.tt/ynwcZXC
No comments:
Post a Comment