Death toll from heavy monsoon rains in Sri Lanka rises to 27; 29 fishermen missing

6/9/2013

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — The death toll from strong winds and monsoon rains across Sri Lanka's coastal areas rose to 27 today, while another 29 fishermen were missing, a government spokesman said.

The navy was searching for the fishermen and more than 32 boats that are missing since heavy monsoon rains and winds hit early Saturday, said Pradeep Kodippili, a spokesman for the government's disaster management center.

By today, 26 fishermen have been killed, while another person died Saturday after being crushed by a fallen tree. Another 35 fishermen have been injured, Kodippili said.

The meteorology department has issued a warning of bad weather with strong winds because of the southwest monsoon.