Cyclone Ditwah Leaves Over 150 Dead and Hundreds of Thousands Displaced in Sri Lanka

Cyclone Ditwah Leaves Over 150 Dead and Hundreds of Thousands Displaced in Sri Lanka
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At least 153 people have died and 191 remain missing in Sri Lanka following landslides and widespread flooding caused by Cyclone Ditwah, Reuters reported. More than 500,000 people across the country have been affected, with over 78,000 relocated to nearly 800 relief centres, mostly set up in schools, according to the Disaster Management Centre.

In Malwana, near Colombo, the Kelani River overflowed, submerging homes and forcing residents. Rescue boats are assisting families stranded in flooded areas, while authorities warn of continued heavy rainfall over the weekend, raising the risk of further flooding.

Many residents have sought refuge on upper floors of partially submerged houses to safeguard their belongings, while local businesses, including pharmacies and supermarkets, have been inundated, threatening long-term economic impacts. Volunteers at the Dalugala Thakiya Mosque are preparing rice parcels and meals to support those affected, particularly daily wage earners who face financial difficulties.

Officials continue rescue and relief operations, emphasizing the urgent need for food, medical aid, and shelter as the country contends with one of the worst flood events in a decade. Humanitarian organisations are mobilising to provide ongoing support amid forecasts of persistent heavy rain.