Sri Lanka is reeling from one of its worst natural disasters in recent years, as torrential rains trigger catastrophic floods and landslides across the country. The human toll continues to rise, with 159 confirmed deaths and 203 people still missing.
According to the latest update from the Disaster Management Center (DMC), 833,985 individuals from 234,503 families have been affected nationwide. A total of 919 safety centers have been opened, now sheltering more than 122,000 displaced persons.
Several districts remain heavily inundated. Gampaha is the worst affected, with 197,144 residents impacted, followed by Puttalam, where 135,922 people are struggling amid widespread flooding. Mannar, Colombo, and Batticaloa are also reporting severe damage, with thousands stranded as rising waters cut off key roads and submerge homes.
The central highlands are facing devastating landslides. Badulla and Kandy each report 52 fatalities, with dozens still unaccounted for. Matale, Kurunegala, and Nuwara Eliya have also recorded multiple landslides, blocking vital routes and isolating entire villages. In Kotmale and Mahiyanganaya, several communities remain unreachable due to collapsed communication lines.
Rescue operations are underway across the island, with the Tri-Forces deploying helicopters, boats, and ground units to evacuate trapped families. However, worsening weather conditions continue to hamper efforts and raise fears of further escalation.
Authorities urge the public to remain alert, avoid flood-prone areas, and follow official advisories as heavy rainfall is forecast to persist in several districts.
