Colombo: Sri Lanka is still facing the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, with the death toll climbing to more than sixty as rescue teams continue to search for missing people. Authorities warn that the number may rise further as floodwaters recede and crews reach isolated areas affected by landslides.
The storm brought intense rainfall for several days, with some regions recording over 300 millimeters. The heavy rains triggered floods and landslides, mainly in the eastern and central parts of the country. Roads, bridges and communication lines were damaged, making it difficult for emergency teams to reach many communities.
More than two hundred thousand people have been affected by the cyclone, and thousands have been moved to emergency shelters. Officials say several homes have been washed away or destroyed, and many families have lost their belongings.
The government has deployed the military, police and disaster response units across affected districts. Helicopters and boats are being used for rescue efforts in areas cut off by collapsed roads and rising river levels. Crews continue to search through mud and debris in landslide sites where people are feared trapped.
Daily life has been heavily affected. Schools remain closed in many districts, several flights have been cancelled or diverted, and train services were suspended due to flooding along major routes.
Meteorologists have said that while the storm is now moving away from Sri Lanka, the risk of more landslides and flooding continues because the ground remains saturated. Residents living near rivers and hillsides have been urged to remain alert.
India has sent relief supplies and support teams, and more international aid is expected. Authorities have also announced financial support and rehabilitation programs for families who lost homes or livelihoods.
Cyclone Ditwah is one of the most destructive weather events Sri Lanka has faced in recent years, and the full scale of the damage may take weeks to understand. For now, rescue teams say their focus remains on reaching the unreachable and providing urgent help to those still waiting.