Cyclone Mocha hits Bangladesh and Myanmar coast

Published

2 years ago

May 14, 2023

editor

Cyclone Mocha has intensified into a category-five storm, hitting the coastlines of Bangladesh and Myanmar.

The powerful cyclone brings heavy rain, winds up to 195kmph, and the risk of dangerous flooding in the Bay of Bengal area.

Storm surges of up to four meters could flood low-lying villages. Cox’s Bazar, the world’s largest refugee camp, is at risk.

Around 500,000 people have been evacuated, and the cyclone is expected to be the strongest in Bangladesh in nearly two decades.

Disruption, flooding, and damage have been reported in Sittwe, Myanmar.

Rescue efforts are hindered due to dangerous conditions.

Casualties and infrastructure damage have been reported in both countries.

Shelters are overcrowded in Cox’s Bazar, and a landslide warning has been issued.

(newsfirst)

COVID subvariants spreading in Asia detected in Sri Lanka

Published

9 hours ago

May 31, 2025

editor

The Medical Research Institute of Sri Lanka has confirmed that the COVID-19 variant currently spreading in the Asian region has also been identified in the country.

Dr. Jude Jayamaha, a specialist in viral diseases at the Medical Research Institute, stated that patients infected with the Omicron subvariants LF.7 and XFG are being reported locally.

Dr. Jayamaha explained that this finding was confirmed through research conducted on biological samples collected from several hospitals across the island.

However, he emphasized that there is no need for undue fear regarding these COVID-19 variants.

Health authorities have also stressed the importance of vulnerable groups—such as pregnant mothers, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses—following health guidelines, including wearing face masks and avoiding crowded places.

Dr. Jayamaha reiterated that new COVID-19 variants emerge periodically, and health authorities are continuously monitoring the situation, so the public should remain calm.

(newswire.lk)

(This story, originally published by newswire.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

Anudi misses out from Miss World Quarter-Finals

Published

9 hours ago

May 31, 2025

editor

The Miss World organization has announced its quarter-finalists, selecting 40 contestants from across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Sri Lanka’s Anudi Gunasekara, was not selected in the top 40, despite being recognized for her impressive performances in the Multimedia and Head-to-Head challenges.

The top 40 consisted of 10 contestants each from Asia & Oceania, Europe, Africa and the Americas.