Rising Death Toll and Emergency
Sri Lanka has declared a nationwide emergency after Cyclone Ditwah unleashed torrential rains and floods for a week. Officials confirmed 132 deaths, while 176 people remain missing, according to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC).
Widespread Destruction
The storm destroyed more than 15,000 homes and forced 78,000 residents into temporary government shelters. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake invoked emergency laws, granting himself expanded powers to tackle the devastation.
Rescue Operations
Military, navy, and air force units were deployed to accelerate relief efforts. On Saturday, troops rescued 69 bus passengers, including a German tourist, trapped in Anuradhapura district. The operation lasted 24 hours, using helicopters and naval boats. Survivors described dramatic scenes: naval officers pulled them across floodwaters with ropes, while collapsing rooftops nearly claimed more lives.
Infrastructure Collapse
In Badulla district, roads remained cut off, isolating villages and blocking aid deliveries. Authorities reported that nearly one‑third of the country lost electricity and clean water as power lines fell and treatment plants submerged. Internet services also suffered disruptions.
Storm Path
Cyclone Ditwah has now moved away from Sri Lanka and is heading north toward India, but the humanitarian crisis on the island continues.