Lanka storms leave 15 dead

Sri Lankan motorists brave a flooded street following torrential rains in the capital Colombo yesterday following torrential rains. Police reported at least 15 deaths related to the flash floods and lightening as the monsoon rains set in. PHOTO: AFP

Three people were killed in the capital on Thursday, all of whom drowned after falling into unprotected drains or manholes, a spokeswoman for the Colombo National Hospital said.

Heavy showers also damaged the roof of the country's parliament, while parts of the main Galle Road in Colombo were washed out, police said.

Schools in Colombo were closed Friday following poor attendance on the previous day as approach roads to the capital were submerged.

Rains in neighbouring Gampaha and Kalutara districts and the southern port district of Galle claimed a further 12 lives, police said.