Severe monsoonal rainfall over the weekend led to the deaths of at least 15 people and left more than 19,000 individuals from over 5,000 families stranded in Sri Lanka, according to authorities on Sunday.

The fatalities were reported in seven districts, including the capital, Colombo. Torrential rains exceeding 300 mm caused flash floods, uprooted trees, and triggered strong winds, lightning, and landslides, as reported by the Disaster Management Centre (DMC).

The heavy rains severely affected 20 out of the 25 administrative districts in the country.

Over 4,000 homes suffered partial damage, with 28 houses completely destroyed.

The Sri Lankan Army responded by deploying seven rescue teams equipped with boats, while the Air Force kept three helicopters on standby for immediate emergency assistance in the affected regions.

In light of the ongoing threat of further rainfall and flooding, the Ministry of Education announced the closure of all schools across the island for Monday.

Additionally, the Ministry of Power and Energy suspended electricity supplies to several areas as a precautionary measure.

Red notices for potential landslides were issued by the National Building Research Centre for four districts.