A devastating cyclonic storm has left more than 80 people dead in Sri Lanka, creating what authorities are calling an unprecedented trail of destruction across the island nation.
Unprecedented Destruction and Rising Death Toll
The powerful weather system has resulted in over 80 confirmed fatalities as of November 28, 2025, with rescue operations continuing throughout affected regions. The scale of damage has overwhelmed local response teams as they struggle to reach isolated communities cut off by floodwaters and debris.
Critical Flood Warning for Colombo
The Irrigation Department has issued an urgent alert warning that the Kelani river is approaching historically high flood levels. This poses a severe risk to Colombo and surrounding areas for the next 48 hours, according to official statements released on November 28.
Meteorological experts indicate that the river levels continue to rise dangerously, threatening to submerge low-lying areas of the capital city. Emergency services have been placed on high alert, with evacuation operations underway in the most vulnerable neighborhoods.
Ongoing Crisis and Response Efforts
Rescue teams are working against time to reach stranded residents as the flood situation worsens. The combination of heavy rainfall from the cyclonic system and the rising river waters has created multiple crisis points across the region.
Local authorities have described the situation as unprecedented in recent memory, with infrastructure damage hampering relief efforts. Power outages and communication disruptions have been reported in several districts, complicating coordination between response teams.
The government has mobilized military assets to assist with evacuation and relief operations, while international aid organizations are preparing to deploy emergency assistance as the full extent of the damage becomes clear.
