Heavy rain in Sri Lanka leaves many dead, displaced

At least 20 people have been reported dead in floods and landslides in Sri Lanka so far following more than a week of heavy rain, officials said Wednesday. 23 security centers have been established to house for more than 5,000 people displaced across the country.

The majority of deaths have occurred due to drowning and lightning strikes. In Sri Lanka, the northeastern monsoon season usually takes place during October and November. However, this year higher than usual rainfalls have been reported in most parts of the country.