(UTV | COLOMBO) – Defence Secretary, Major General (Retd) Kamal Gunaratne said that all preparations have been made and the relevant District and Divisional Secretaries have been notified on the measures to be taken to assist those who are affected by the cyclone.
He said that the Disaster Management Center (DMC) is in touch with the relevant officials in the North and East and is prepared to face the cyclone and the Defence Ministry had notified the Commanders of the Vanni, Northern and Eastern Provinces to extend their fullest cooperation to the District and Divisional Secretaries to prevent any adverse effects on the people and assist the people if they are already affected.
He said in addition to the Tri-Forces, the Police is also on alert to assist those affected by the storm and take measures where possible, to avoid serious harm to public and property.
The Department of Meteorology has issued a red alert for the Northern, North Central, Eastern, North Western, Western, Central and Sabaragamuwa Provinces where cyclone ‘Burevi’ is expected to hit and a alert has been issued warning of very strong, gusty winds between 80-100 kmph.
Gunaratne said the Police and health authorities are also prepared to face any situation that may arise.
He noted that while all efforts would be taken to prevent or limit any damage that could be caused by the cyclone and take urgent measures to assist the public who may be affected by the cyclone.