Deadly Floods and Landslides Wreak Havoc in Sri Lanka
Severe monsoon conditions intensified by Cyclone Ditwah have plunged Sri Lanka into a state of emergency, claiming at least 25 lives and forcing widespread evacuations across the island nation. The government has taken drastic measures, closing offices and schools as the situation continues to deteriorate.
Widespread Destruction and Rescue Operations
Heavy downpours that began last week have transformed the landscape, flooding homes, agricultural fields, and major transportation routes. The relentless rains have triggered multiple landslides, particularly affecting the central regions of the country. Overflowing rivers and reservoirs have blocked key roads, while massive accumulations of rocks, mud, and fallen trees have rendered both roads and railway tracks impassable.
Some transportation corridors were completely submerged under water, compelling authorities to suspend passenger train services across many affected areas. The military and navy have launched comprehensive rescue operations, utilizing helicopters and boats to reach residents stranded by the rising waters.
Central Districts Bear the Brunt
The central tea-growing district of Badulla suffered the most devastating blow, where a catastrophic landslide buried multiple homes overnight, killing 21 people according to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC). The neighboring district of Nuwara Eliya reported four additional fatalities, with other casualties spread throughout the country.
The human toll extends beyond the confirmed deaths, with over 1,800 families displaced from their homes and relocated to temporary shelters. Social media platforms have circulated disturbing videos showing houses being swept away by powerful floodwaters, illustrating the scale of the disaster.
Monsoon Season Intensified by Cyclone
Sri Lanka is currently experiencing its northeast monsoon season, which has been significantly worsened by Cyclone Ditwah forming off the island's eastern coast. The weather system is expected to move toward India while continuing to impact Sri Lankan territory.
River levels continue to rise dangerously, prompting the DMC to issue urgent warnings to residents in low-lying areas, including the capital Colombo, to evacuate to higher ground. The Irrigation Department has issued a red-level flood warning for the Kelani River valley over the next 48 hours, indicating imminent danger.
The Meteorological Department has forecasted over 200 mm of rainfall in some central and northern regions on Friday alone, suggesting the crisis may intensify. The educational sector has also been disrupted, with students scheduled for Advanced Level exams seeing their tests postponed indefinitely.
According to BBC reports citing the DMC, approximately 20,500 army personnel have been deployed nationwide to assist in rescue and relief operations as the country battles one of its most severe weather emergencies in recent memory.
