The Sri Lankan government has declared a state of emergency after Cyclone Ditwah triggered massive flooding and landslides, marking one of the most devastating natural disasters to hit the country in recent years. Officials reported that more than 330 people have been confirmed dead.
Authorities said over 200 individuals remain missing, while around 200,000 homes were destroyed, forcing more than 108,000 residents to take shelter in state-run evacuation centers.
The cyclone also crippled essential services, leaving about one-third of the country without electricity and clean water, severely hampering rescue operations and worsening conditions for affected communities.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake described the cyclone’s impact as the “most significant disaster challenge” Sri Lanka has faced in years, emphasizing the extensive destruction left in its wake.
Evacuation efforts continue across various regions, particularly in areas inundated by the overflowing Kelani River. In the central part of the country, a resident reported that 15 houses were completely buried by boulders and thick mud, leaving no survivors.
The highest number of fatalities has been recorded in Kandy and Badulla, where rescue teams are still struggling to reach many areas due to damaged roads and ongoing landslides.
Given the scale of the disaster, the Sri Lankan government has appealed for international assistance and urged Sri Lankans abroad to contribute donations to support affected communities.
