Cyclone Ditwah: Torrential rainfall and flooding triggered by Cyclone Ditwah have killed 123 people across Sri Lanka, with 130 others still missing, the country’s Disaster Management Centre reported Saturday.
Director General Sampath Kotuwegoda confirmed that 43,995 people have been relocated to state-run welfare centers after their homes were destroyed during the week-long deluge. “Relief operations with the help of the armed forces are underway,” Kotuwegoda told reporters in Colombo.
Cyclone Ditwah Leaves Trail of Destruction
The weather system has affected the island since Monday, with the cyclone making landfall Wednesday and producing record rainfall. Although the system is now moving toward neighboring India, it has left massive destruction across Sri Lanka.
Flooding intensified in low-lying areas Saturday, prompting authorities to issue evacuation orders for residents along the Kelani River, which flows through Colombo into the Indian Ocean. The river burst its banks Friday evening, forcing hundreds to temporary shelters.
While rainfall subsided in most regions including the capital, northern parts of the island continued experiencing showers from Cyclone Ditwah’s residual effects.
Military Mobilized for Rescue Operations
The government has deployed armed forces to support rescue and relief efforts nationwide, utilizing military helicopters and boats to evacuate stranded residents. DMC officials indicated flood levels may exceed those from 2016, when 71 people died nationwide.
India Provides Aid
India dispatched a planeload of relief supplies early Saturday for cyclone victims. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the loss of life and pledged continued support.
My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 28, 2025
In solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief…
“We stand ready to provide more aid and assistance as the situation evolves,” PM Modi stated on X.
Historical Context
This week’s weather-related death toll represents the highest since June of last year, when 26 people died following heavy rains. December flooding and landslides killed 17 people.
Sri Lanka’s most devastating flooding since 2000 occurred in June 2003, claiming 254 lives. The current disaster ranks among the country’s deadliest weather events in recent decades.
Authorities continue monitoring flood levels and coordinating relief efforts as communities assess damage and begin recovery operations. The DMC maintains emergency protocols while the weather system moves away from the island nation.
