Sri Lanka announces lockdown as coronavirus cases surge; president to address nation

Sri Lanka announced a 10-day lockdown starting on Friday night in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus, as surging infections and deaths overwhelm the island's health system. The Indian Ocean nation recorded its highest single-day death toll of 187 and 3,793 cases on Wednesday. 'Nationwide Lockdown in effect from 10pm today (20/08) to Monday (30/08). All essential services will function as normal,' Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said on Twitter.