COLOMBO, Nov 28, 2025 – The recent onslaught of Cyclone Ditwah has left a devastating mark on Sri Lanka, with reported fatalities reaching 46 and an additional 23 individuals still unaccounted for. The cyclone brought with it torrential rain and strong winds, leading to extensive flooding and triggering landslides across various districts in the country.
The Impact of Cyclone Ditwah
According to officials from the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), most of the casualties were linked to landslides resulting from over 300mm (12 inches) of rainfall that inundated the eastern and central regions of the island nation. The situation remains critical, with forecasts indicating that heavy rains may continue for the next 12 hours, potentially exacerbating the already challenging conditions.
As a result of the cyclone, nearly 44,000 individuals have been affected, prompting many to seek refuge in makeshift shelters, such as schools, to escape the ravaging waters.
Evacuations and Rescue Operations
Preemptively, the Colombo Stock Exchange halted trading, while schools and train operations have been suspended to allow for recovery efforts. The military and police forces mounted a substantial rescue operation that included airlifting 13 people who were trapped on a bridge in Polonnaruwa, located approximately 220 kilometers northeast of Colombo. Footage released by the air force depicted numerous families stranded on rooftops, with one man precariously held up on a coconut tree.
“Strong winds are making the floods worse. We removed furniture from two nearby houses to a safer area, and now I’m going to the shelter to stay with the rest of my family,” stated 70-year-old Mohammed Rumy from the Wellampitiya suburb of Colombo, highlighting the panic and disruptions felt by many residents.
Widespread Disruptions
The infrastructural disruptions continue to ripple across the nation. Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) faced significant operational hurdles, leading to the diversion of 15 flights to several airports, including Trivandrum and Cochin in south India, as a result of severe weather conditions affecting flight safety.
In response to the humanitarian crisis, the Indian High Commission in Colombo reported the delivery of 6.5 metric tons of food aid to support affected communities, marking a show of solidarity as Cyclone Ditwah continues its path towards southern India.
Government and Community Response
In light of the situation, over 20,000 police and military personnel are mobilized across multiple towns, focusing on the outskirts of Colombo, where the floodwaters are reported to be rising dangerously high. Emergency responders work around the clock amidst the destruction, supporting communities and rescuing those who remain trapped.
A Community in Crisis
As the cyclone continues to threaten further havoc, residents are being urged to stay informed and take precautions. The urgency of the situation is palpable as communities unite in efforts to aid those impacted by the cyclone's catastrophic effects.
In the days to come, local and international agencies are expected to focus on recovery and rehabilitation efforts, aiming to support displaced individuals and rebuild infrastructure damaged during this natural disaster. The shared resilience of the Sri Lankan people will be crucial in overcoming the challenges posed by Cyclone Ditwah.
This tragic event highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather phenomena linked to climate change, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive environmental strategies and disaster preparedness initiatives.
For more updates on the ongoing situation, stay connected with us.
