Travellers to Sri Lanka are facing severe disruption and safety concerns as the island nation battles devastating floods and landslides triggered by Cyclone Ditwah. The extreme weather has claimed at least 56 lives, with heavy rain forecast to continue, posing significant risks.
Widespread Devastation and Critical Warnings
The crisis began last week, with heavy downpours destroying homes and triggering landslides, particularly on the eastern coast. The situation escalated dramatically, with Sri Lanka’s Department for Meteorology recording more than 375mm (14.8in) of rain in some central and northern areas on Thursday alone.
Authorities have issued a red-level flood warning for low-lying areas of the Kalani River Valley, including the capital, Colombo. The public in numerous areas such as Kolannava, Kalani, and Homagama have been urged to be extremely vigilant to protect lives and property. Tragically, more than 25 people were killed in landslides in the central tea-growing regions of Badulla and Nuwara Eliya, with another 21 individuals reported missing.
Travel and Transport Grind to a Halt
The severe weather has caused major travel chaos. On Friday, six Colombo-bound international flights were diverted to airports in southern India. SriLankan Airlines has advised all passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
The disruption isn't limited to air travel. Most passenger train services have been suspended after rocks and trees fell onto railway tracks. For those attempting to reach Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), north of Colombo, authorities are strongly recommending the use of the Colombo-Katunayake Expressway and have asked passengers not to bring visitors to the terminal to reduce congestion.
Official Advice for Travellers and Residents
In response to the escalating crisis, Sri Lankan authorities closed government offices and schools on Friday. The country's Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has a stark warning for everyone: don't stay in dangerous places. They have set up a hotline, 117, for further flooding information.
The UK Foreign Office (FCDO) has also updated its travel guidance, confirming severe weather conditions throughout Sri Lanka are causing significant travel disruption. While the FCDO has not advised against all non-essential travel, it strongly recommends monitoring local authorities like the DMC and the Sri Lankan Department of Meteorology for updates.
For travellers considering cancellation, the situation is complex. Since the Foreign Office has not issued a no-travel warning, there is no automatic right to a full refund. Your ability to cancel will depend entirely on your holiday provider's terms and conditions. Travel insurance is unlikely to cover cancellation due to safety concerns unless the FCDO advice changes, though some policies may include natural disaster cover.
