Severe flooding triggered by Cyclone Ditwah has caused catastrophic damage across Sri Lanka, claiming hundreds of lives and prompting urgent international travel warnings, including from the UK.
Widespread Devastation and Mounting Casualties
The tropical cyclone has brought devastation to the island nation since last week. Official figures confirm at least 334 fatalities as a direct result of the extreme weather. Rescue teams are currently engaged in a desperate search for a further 370 individuals reported missing.
Torrential rainfall, with some areas recording over 375mm, has led to widespread flooding and triggered dangerous landslides. The scale of the disaster is immense, with nearly one third of the country left without basic essential services such as electricity and clean water.
Critical Warnings and Major Disruptions
Authorities have issued the highest level of alert. Red-level flood warnings remain in force for critical zones including the capital, Colombo, and the Kelani River Valley. Separate landslide warnings are also active for the districts of Badulla, Colombo, and Kandy.
The impact on travel and infrastructure has been severe:
- International flights have been diverted from their usual routes.
- Passenger train services across the country have been halted.
- Bandaranaike International Airport and major airlines have issued specific advisories to travellers.
In response to the crisis, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its guidance, issuing a formal severe weather warning for British nationals considering travel to Sri Lanka.
Humanitarian Crisis and Shelter Efforts
The human cost of the disaster continues to rise. Nearly 120,000 people have been forced from their homes and are now being housed in temporary relief shelters set up by the government and aid agencies. These centres provide basic refuge for those who have lost everything in the floods and landslides.
With essential services crippled and rescue operations ongoing, the situation remains fluid. The combination of continued rainfall threats and already saturated ground means further landslides and flooding are a serious concern. Travellers are strongly urged to consult the latest FCDO advice and exercise extreme caution.
