Ecosphere News | Colombo
Sri Lanka remained on high alert on Friday as severe flooding and landslides triggered by Cyclone Ditwah claimed at least 56 lives, according to local authorities. The powerful storm made landfall on the island’s eastern coast early Friday morning, before moving northwestward toward India, leaving widespread destruction in several regions.
Intense rainfall brought by the cyclone caused rivers to overflow, inundating low-lying communities and cutting off access to remote villages. In hill districts, continuous downpours destabilized slopes, triggering landslides that buried homes and roads, hampering rescue and relief operations.
Disaster management officials reported that thousands of families have been displaced, with emergency shelters set up in schools and public buildings. Infrastructure damage, including blocked highways, damaged bridges, and power outages, has further complicated relief efforts. Search and rescue teams, supported by the military and local volunteers, continued operations amid challenging weather conditions.
Meteorological authorities warned that heavy rainfall may persist in parts of the country even as the cyclone weakens and moves away, increasing the risk of additional floods and landslides. Residents in vulnerable areas were urged to remain vigilant and follow evacuation advisories issued by local administrations.
Environmental experts have also pointed out that the growing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events highlight Sri Lanka’s vulnerability to climate-induced disasters. Unplanned settlements in floodplains and unstable hill slopes have further amplified the human cost of such events.
As the country grapples with immediate rescue and relief needs, calls are growing for stronger disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and climate-resilient development to reduce future risks and protect vulnerable communities.
Ecosphere News will continue to follow developments and provide verified updates as the situation evolves.
