Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre
Issued at 3.30 p.m. on 22 April 2026, valid for 23 April 2026.

The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Eastern
and Southern provinces and in Monaragala district during the day time.

The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.

Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.

ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.

Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.

The importance of establishing learning centers at regional level has been identified in order to achieve multiple objectives, including the development of teachers, utilization as a hub for new technology and resource sharing, enhancement of vocational and higher education opportunities, efficient utilization of limited physical and human resources, integration of new technologies with subject-specific knowledge,
sharing of limited resources to ensure equitable access to education, and development of skills in line with regional potential, thereby contributing to the qualitative development of commerce education.

Accordingly, the project to establish 100 activity-based learning centers for the enhancement of commerce education has been included in the Public Investment Programme as a major investment project in general education, with an estimated total cost of Rs. 289 million, to be implemented during the period 2026–2028.

Having considered the proposal submitted by the Prime Minister, in her capacity as the Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, Cabinet approval was granted to establish and operationalize 25 regional centres covering all 25 districts.

Approval was granted at the Cabinet Meeting held on 21-10-2025 to carry out a feasibility study and prepare detailed plans for the extension of the Kelani Valley Railway Line from Avissawella to Ratnapura.

The calling of expressions for this purpose has been conducted under the national Competitive Procurement Procedure, and 8 bidders have submitted their Expression of Interest in that respect.

Following the evaluation of technical proposals submitted by the short-listed bidders, and financial proposals of the 4 eligible institutions have been opened. Subsequent to the evaluation of the aforementioned financial proposals, the Consultant Procurement Committee has recommended awarding
the consultancy for the feasibility study and preparation of detailed plans for the extension of the Kelani Valley Railway Line from Avissawella to Ratnapura to M/s. Resources Development Consultants (Pvt) Ltd at a total cost of Rs. 356.22 million (exclusive of taxes).

Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved the resolution furnished by the Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development to award the said procurement in line with the above recommendation.