Sri Lanka, Oct. 21 -- The Department of Meteorology has issued a 'Red' alert for heavy rainfall across a large part of the island.

Forecasters warn that several regions, including the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western, Southern, and Northern provinces, alongside the Anuradhapura District, are expected to experience hefty rain, potentially exceeding 150 millimetres in some areas.

This severe weather is being caused by a low-level atmospheric disturbance that has intensified into a low-pressure area to the east of the island. This system is developing further and is predicted to track west-northwestwards, close to the country.

The general public is strongly advised to remain vigilant and closely follow subsequent updates from...