Inclement weather with the onset of the South West monsoon has claimed five lives across the island, with at least six people missing, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said today.

Three died as a result of lightning – two in Trincomalee and one in Ridimaliyadda, Badulla district, while a teacher in Badalkumbura, Moneragala died after a tree uprooted and fell on her.

Six others from various areas across the island have been reported missing.

Heavy rainfall of over 150mm has been experienced in parts of the island as the South West monsoon establishes over the island.

The DMC has warned residents in low-lying areas close to rivers to be watchful and prepare to evacuate in needed.

Meanwhile the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) also issued landslide warnings to 9 districts following heavy rains yesterday.