Note from the Editorial Team
In the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, Sri Lanka stands at a critical crossroads — one that demands not only compassion from the world but also discipline, clarity and genuine commitment to proper humanitarian practice. The devastation wrought by the cyclone has displaced thousands, destroyed homes, disrupted livelihoods and left families struggling for access to food, clean water, medicine and basic dignity. In response, the Government of Sri Lanka has launched the official donation portal, “Stand with Sri Lanka”, hosted at donate.gov.lk, providing verified bank details issued by the Finance, Planning and Economic Development Ministry. This platform is not merely a mechanism for collections; it is a safeguard — a transparent, accountable bridge ensuring that every contribution reaches the people who need it most.
Authorities have confirmed that 100% of all contributions made through the official portal will be directed to coordinated national relief efforts. Funds will support food distribution to displaced families, emergency medical care, clean water and sanitation to prevent disease outbreaks, and temporary shelter for those whose homes were destroyed. At a time when humanitarian need grows by the hour, this guarantee is essential. The platform also outlines the Government’s approved donation channels, giving donors the clarity and assurance necessary to engage responsibly.
Across the globe, nations have already demonstrated extraordinary solidarity with Sri Lanka. India and Pakistan have deployed emergency consignments through its humanitarian relief mission, sending aircraft and naval support filled with food rations, medical supplies, tents and specialised rescue teams who have joined efforts on the ground. Their rapid mobilisation reflects long-standing regional bonds and a profound sensitivity to Sri Lanka’s urgent needs.
China, too, has committed emergency assistance through its government and humanitarian organisations, sending relief supplies and financial aid to support ongoing rescue operations. Japan has dispatched an expert assessment team and provided emergency goods including tents, blankets and critical relief items for vulnerable families. These gestures from global partners showcase the shared belief that Sri Lanka’s recovery is not its burden alone — it is a collective humanitarian responsibility.
Yet, even as official support gains momentum, a parallel challenge has emerged: the rise of unofficial groups, informal fundraising teams and self-appointed “aid coordinators” soliciting money through social media, messaging apps and various informal networks. While some may be well-meaning, the risks are undeniable. Unverified appeals lack institutional oversight, offer no guarantees of transparency and can divert funds away from the most affected communities. Worse, they create opportunities for exploitation, mismanagement or outright fraud — all at the expense of families already suffering from loss, trauma and insecurity.
Humanitarian generosity must never become an avenue for opportunism. It is precisely in moments of crisis that misinformation spreads fastest and vulnerable people are most at risk. Therefore, it is essential — indeed, morally imperative — that donors avoid all unofficial channels and instead rely on verified government mechanisms and recognised humanitarian agencies. The “Stand with Sri Lanka” portal exists for this reason. It is the only digital gateway that provides both transparency and national accountability.
Sri Lanka’s embassies and missions around the world also carry a profound responsibility at this moment. They must take an active leadership role — not a passive one — in guiding diaspora communities, international partners and well-wishers. Missions must consistently publicise the official donation portal, respond promptly to donor inquiries and make clear that no external group or individual is authorised to collect funds on behalf of the Sri Lankan Government. Preventing confusion is not merely administrative housekeeping; it is an ethical duty of the diplomatic corps. In a crisis where every hour matters, every embassy must serve as both a guardian of proper procedure and an amplifier of official relief channels.
For donors — whether Sri Lankan citizens, diaspora communities or compassionate individuals across the globe — this moment requires thoughtful generosity. Trust must not be placed in circulating posters, unverified QR codes or passionate online appeals without institutional backing. Compassion is not diminished by discipline; rather, it is strengthened by ensuring that every rupee, dollar or euro contributes directly to rebuilding lives.
Sri Lanka will rebuild. The resilience of its people is unquestionable. But the path to recovery depends on the integrity of the global response. True solidarity is not simply the act of giving — it is the act of giving responsibly.
Let every contribution be an act of transparent humanity. Let it reach the mother seeking shelter for her children, the communities rebuilding their homes, the frontline medical teams working tirelessly to treat the injured, and the families praying for clean water and a safe night’s sleep.
“Stand with Sri Lanka” is more than a portal; it is a pledge — a promise that donors and the nation make together. In this moment of profound need, let us rise to that promise with clarity, compassion and a collective commitment to channel every act of kindness through the proper, official and dignified path. Only then can we help Sri Lanka not just survive this tragedy, but emerge from it stronger and united.
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Note: Our live updates on Cyclone Ditwah and its aftermath conclude here.
Death Toll Rises to 410 as Sri Lanka Battles Aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah
Story Updated at 12: 00 AM Colombo Time: The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has issued an updated situation report indicating that the death toll from the ongoing island-wide disaster has risen to 410, with all 25 districts affected. As of the latest update issued at 10 a.m. today (02), 336 individuals are still reported missing. The severe weather conditions have impacted 1,466,615 people from 407,594 families across the country. Kandy remains the worst-affected district, recording 88 deaths and 150 missing persons, followed by Badulla with 83 deaths and 28 missing, Nuwara Eliya with 75 deaths and 62 missing, Kurunegala with 52 deaths and 27 missing, and Puttalam with 27 deaths. Authorities continue ongoing search, rescue, and relief operations as conditions evolve.
Maldives Telethon for Sri Lanka – Cyclone Ditwa Relief Effort
by Our Correspondents in Colombo and in New Delhi
Story Updated at 10: 10 AM Colombo Time: The Maldives’ nationwide telethon in support of Sri Lanka’s Cyclone Ditwa relief effort has concluded with remarkable success and an outpouring of compassion from across the country. As of the latest update, the initiative has raised more than USD 800,000, equivalent to LKR 246,752,160, reflecting the extraordinary generosity of Maldivians who came together in a moment of urgent need.
Organised by Public Service Media (PSM) under the theme “Ceylon Aaeku Dhivehin” (Maldivians with Ceylon), the telethon ran for nearly 30 continuous hours, from Sunday morning through Monday afternoon. A total of 37 media outlets broadcast the event simultaneously, transforming it into a truly national moment of unity. Contributions flowed in through donation boxes placed throughout the islands as well as through bank transfers and QR-code payments, with individuals, companies, government institutions, and community organisations all joining hands for the cause.
In addition to the telethon proceeds, the Maldivian government has already extended immediate assistance, including USD 50,000 in emergency funds and 25,000 cases of canned tuna, making the Maldives the first country to respond to Sri Lanka’s call for help. This early and heartfelt support has been deeply appreciated by the Sri Lankan government. The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the Maldives expressed profound gratitude, noting that the kindness, urgency, and solidarity shown by the Maldivian people “will never be forgotten.”
All funds raised through the telethon will be directed toward relief and recovery efforts in communities affected by Cyclone Ditwa. A detailed, audited breakdown of the allocation of funds will be released publicly to ensure full transparency. This collective effort stands as a moving testament to the close friendship between the Maldives and Sri Lanka, and to the strength of compassion when a nation rallies to uplift its neighbour in a time of hardship.
Putin Extends Condolences to Sri Lanka After Deadly Floods and Landslides
Story Updated at 09: 50 AM Colombo Time: Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended his condolences to Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake following the devastating floods and landslides that have caused significant loss of life and widespread destruction across the country. In his message, Putin expressed deep sorrow over the numerous casualties and requested that his words of sympathy and support be conveyed to the families of the victims, along with wishes for the speedy recovery of those injured.
All updates on 01 December 2025 are as follows:
Death Toll Rises to 390 as Sri Lanka Battles Aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah
Story Updated at 22: 15 PM Colombo Time: The Disaster Management Center (DMC) has issued a new update confirming that the death toll resulting from the severe weather conditions experienced across the country in recent days has risen to 390. Authorities caution that the figure may continue to climb as rescue teams reach more isolated areas affected by flooding and landslides.
According to the DMC, the Kandy District remains the worst affected, recording 88 fatalities—the highest from any single district. Despite challenging conditions and damaged infrastructure, rescue and relief teams continue operations across multiple provinces, working to provide urgent assistance to affected families and restore critical access routes.
The number of individuals reported missing has reached 352, prompting intensified search operations across several districts. Emergency responders, supported by military and volunteer units, are working around the clock to locate the missing and deliver essential supplies to communities still cut off by the disaster.
In a significant development, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today, expressing deep condolences over the loss of life and extensive destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s steadfast solidarity with Sri Lanka, emphasizing that the Indian people stand firmly with the nation during this critical time. He also highlighted India’s ongoing support under Operation Sagar Bandhu, which includes the deployment of rescue teams and relief materials.
President Dissanayake expressed profound gratitude for India’s swift and effective assistance, acknowledging the crucial role played by Indian teams in early rescue operations. He also conveyed the appreciation of the Sri Lankan people for India’s timely response, noting that continued cooperation will be essential as Sri Lanka progresses from immediate relief efforts to long-term recovery. Both leaders agreed to maintain close communication as the situation evolves.
Meanwhile, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved the establishment of the ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund, aimed at supporting national rehabilitation following the extensive destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah—one of the worst natural disasters in recent Sri Lankan history. The fund will operate as a statutory body under the Presidential Secretariat, with oversight from a Management Committee composed of representatives from government institutions and the private sector.
The committee will be chaired by Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando, with Senior Additional Secretary to the President G.M.R.D. Aponso serving as Convener. Other members include senior government officials and leading corporate figures such as Hanif Yusoof, Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Duminda Hulangamuwa, Sugeeshwara Gunawardena, Mohan Pandithage, Krishan Balendra, Dr. Parakrama Dissanayake, Ashroff Omar, and Ishara Nanayakkara. The committee has been tasked with assessing national recovery needs, prioritizing interventions, and ensuring transparent allocation and auditing of funds.
The government has invited local and international donors to contribute to the fund, with options to donate in Sri Lankan Rupees or foreign currencies through designated accounts at the Bank of Ceylon and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. Officials emphasized that the fund will adhere to strict financial governance standards, ensuring accountability as Sri Lanka undertakes extensive rebuilding, restores public services, and works to revive livelihoods across the impacted regions.
Story Updated at 18: 00 PM Colombo Time: The Disaster Management Center (DMC) has issued a somber update, confirming that the death toll from the severe weather brought on by Cyclone “Ditwah” has risen to 366, with the Kandy District reporting the highest number of fatalities at 88. Search and relief teams continue operations across several districts as 367 individuals remain missing, while the overall impact of the cyclone has grown to affect 1,151,776 people from 316,366 families in 25 districts. With widespread flooding and landslides still posing significant risks, the DMC reports that 218,526 displaced individuals from 61,612 families are currently taking refuge in 1,564 safe shelters nationwide.
Story Updated at 12: 55 PM Colombo Time: According to the latest update issued by the Disaster Management Centre as of 01 December 2025 at 0900 hours, the humanitarian situation across the affected districts continues to intensify. A total of 318,252 families, comprising 1,156,860 persons, have now been impacted by the ongoing disaster conditions. The cumulative death toll has risen to 355, while 366 individuals remain missing, indicating persistent gaps in search and rescue efforts in several districts. Tragically, districts such as Kandy, Badulla, and Nuwara Eliya continue to report some of the highest casualty figures.
Displacement levels have increased further, with 1,529 safety centres now operating nationwide, providing temporary protection for 59,266 families amounting to 209,568 persons. Colombo, Gampaha, Puttalam, and Mannar remain among the worst-affected in terms of displaced populations, highlighting the continuing need for expanded shelter and relief support. Meanwhile, districts such as Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, and Vavuniya—although facing fewer fatalities—report substantial impacts on local communities, particularly in relation to livelihoods and accessibility.
All updates on 30 November 2025 are as follows:
Death Toll Rises to 334 as 370 Remain Missing in Sri Lanka Aftermath of Ditwah
Story Updated at 23: 05 PM Colombo Time: According to the latest update issued by the Disaster Management Center at 6 p.m. today (30), the death toll has risen sharply to 334, marking one of the most devastating nationwide crises in recent years. An additional 370 individuals remain missing, intensifying the fear and desperation felt across affected communities.
The scale of human suffering continues to expand, with 1,118,929 people belonging to 309,607 families now severely impacted by the relentless adverse weather. Among the affected regions, Kandy District has recorded the highest number of deaths—88 in total—underscoring the magnitude of destruction in the hill country. Badulla follows with 71 deaths, while Nuwara Eliya and Kurunegala have reported 68 and 37 fatalities respectively. Matale District, too, has endured significant tragedy, with 23 deaths confirmed.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, the number of missing persons remains alarmingly high in several districts. Kandy alone has 150 individuals still unaccounted for, while Nuwara Eliya reports 64 missing. Badulla District has 53 missing persons, and Kurunegala has 35, leaving families in anxious suspense as rescue operations continue.
Amid this worsening national tragedy, yet another heartbreaking loss has shaken the rescue efforts: the pilot of the Bell 212 helicopter that went down in Lunuwila this afternoon (30) has succumbed to his injuries. The 41-year-old Sri Lanka Air Force Wing Commander, who was flying a critical rescue mission to save those trapped by the severe weather, passed away while receiving treatment at the Marawila Base Hospital.
Story Updated at 21:30 PM Colombo Time: In a nationally televised address following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, today, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake thanked the international community for assisting ongoing humanitarian and relief operations. The cyclone triggered severe flooding and landslides across multiple districts, leaving thousands stranded. Although the President acknowledged several countries for their support, he notably did not mention India—the first nation to dispatch rapid emergency assistance—nor Pakistan, whose PNS Saif deployed a Z9EC helicopter to deliver critical HADR supplies to trapped families shortly after completing its participation in the International Fleet Review 2025.
The omission has stirred immediate public discussion, with many questioning whether the failure to name India and Pakistan was accidental or intentional. The issue is amplified by the political history of the President’s own party, the JVP, which once led the panthi paha campaign criticizing perceived regional “expansionism,” particularly from India. As relief efforts continue, the President’s silence on two of the most active responders has become a focal point of debate, overshadowing portions of the address and raising diplomatic eyebrows.
Sri Lanka Air Force Helicopter Downed During Relief Operation
Story Updated at 20:45 PM Colombo Time: A Bell 212 helicopter of the Sri Lanka Air Force, which had been deployed for ongoing disaster-relief operations, crashed this afternoon (30) in the Lunuwila area of Wennappuwa. Initial information indicates that the aircraft went down over Gin Oya while conducting its mission, resulting in injuries to several personnel on board. Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched, and all crew members were successfully rescued and admitted to hospital for treatment. Further investigations into the cause of the crash are currently underway.
Death Toll Rises to 212 as 218 Remain Missing in Sri Lanka Aftermath of Ditwah
Story Updated at 17.35 PM Colombo Time: The Disaster Management Center’s situation report issued at 4:00 p.m. on 30 November 2025 shows that 273,606 families—totalling 998,918 persons—have been affected nationwide. A total of 212 deaths and 218 missing persons have been reported, with the highest casualties recorded in Badulla (71 deaths) and Kandy (66 deaths). 1,275 safety centres are currently operating, sheltering 51,228 families or 180,499 individuals. The districts with the largest displaced populations include Gampaha, Colombo, Mannar, and Puttalam, each hosting tens of thousands of affected residents. Emergency response teams continue evacuation and relief efforts as authorities monitor rising humanitarian needs across multiple districts.
Death Toll Rises to 193 as 228 Remain Missing in Sri Lanka Aftermath of Ditwah
Story Updated at 14.05 PM Colombo Time: The latest situation report issued by the Disaster Management Center on 30 November 2025 at 12.00 p.m provides a detailed statistical account of the expanding humanitarian impact across 25 districts. According to the report, a total of 266,114 families and 968,304 persons have been affected nationwide. The death toll has risen to 193, while 228 individuals remain missing across multiple districts. The report further confirms that 1,094 safety centres are currently operational, providing shelter to 41,005 families and 147,931 persons who have been displaced.
District-level data shows significant variation in the scale of impact. Colombo records the highest number of affected persons at 174,255 from 40,740 families, while Gampaha follows with 211,719 persons from 55,306 families. Puttlam also reports 135,922 affected individuals across 36,098 families. Several districts have notable mortality figures, including Badulla with 71 deaths, Matale with 20, Kandy with 52, and Kaluthara with 4. Missing persons counts are particularly high in Badulla at 53 and Kandy at 105, reflecting ongoing search and rescue efforts. Other districts, including Jaffna, Polonnaruwa, and Ratnapura, report considerable displacement despite lower casualty figures.
Shelter requirements continue to increase as families move into safety centres across the country. Colombo accommodates 3,492 families with 17,222 persons, while Gampaha shelters 4,921 families and 19,458 persons. Batticola reports 1,315 sheltered families and 3,529 persons, and Badulla hosts 5,524 families with 22,373 persons. The distribution of safety centres varies, with Badulla operating 180 centres, Colombo 97, and Kandy 105, illustrating the intensity of humanitarian coordination needed. These figures highlight the broad scale of the crisis and the expanding logistical demands placed on local authorities and national response agencies.
Aftermath of Ditwah: Worsening Floods Grip Sri Lanka
Story Updated at 10.45 AM Colombo Time: Flood conditions across several river basins continue to evolve, with the Kalu Ganga basin showing the most concerning trends. As of the latest hydrological readings taken on 30 November at 9:00 a.m., the Kalu Ganga at Putupaula has reached 4.20 meters, exceeding the minor flood level of 4.00 meters and continuing to rise. At Ellagawa, access to gauge data remains unavailable due to flooding, while at Ratnapura the river is at 7.20 meters, slightly above the alert level of 7.50 meters earlier but now gradually falling. On the Kuda Ganga at Kalawellawa (Millakanda), the water level stands at 7.97 meters, remaining just below the major flood level of 8.00 meters, with a slow downward trend.
Across other basins, the Kelani Ganga shows a mixed pattern: Nagalagam Street is at 7.30 feet and rising, surpassing the major flood level of 7.00 feet; Hanwella remains in major flood level but is slowly falling from 10.84 meters; and Glencourse records 18.01 meters, above minor flood limits but also falling. Tributaries such as Kithulgala, Gurugoda Oya at Holombuwa, and Seethawaka Ganga at Deraniyagala remain at normal levels.
In the southern basin, the Gin Ganga at Baddegama and Thawalama is at normal levels, while the Nilwala Ganga across multiple stations remains below alert thresholds, showing stable or slightly falling trends. The Attanagalu Oya at Dunamale remains in minor flood condition at 5.34 meters but is slowly decreasing.
Rainfall across the country in the 24-hour period ending at 8:30 a.m. on 30 November is relatively low in most areas. The highest recorded rainfall is 25.8 mm at Bowatenna. Other stations in the central and hill country basins report between 0.0 mm and 20 mm, with many showing no significant rainfall. These readings indicate that although rainfall has eased, accumulated upstream water and saturated ground conditions are still contributing to river swellings.
The hydrology authorities warn that the existing flood situation in low-lying areas of Kalutara, Ingiriya, Horana, Dodangoda, Millaniya, Bulathsinhala, Palindanuwara, Madurawala, and Agalawatta may escalate into a considerable flood situation. Residents and travelers in these regions are urged to remain watchful and follow safety directives from disaster management teams.
Meanwhile, Japan has announced the dispatch of a four-member emergency assessment team to Sri Lanka through the Japan International Cooperation Agency. The team, which includes medical personnel, will depart Japan on 30 November to assess on-ground humanitarian and medical needs following the cyclone that caused widespread damage. Japan will also provide emergency relief items such as tents and blankets to support affected communities, reaffirming its long-standing partnership with Sri Lanka during humanitarian crises.
All updates on 29 November 2025 are as follows:
Story Updated at 20.00 PM Colombo Time: Sri Lanka’s humanitarian emergency deepened further on Saturday night, as the latest Situation Report from the Disaster Management Centre confirmed that 159 people are now dead and 203 remain missing, marking a continued rise in casualties linked to Cyclone Ditwa’s destructive passage. The total number of affected individuals has surged to 833,985 across 234,503 families, an increase from earlier counts, indicating expanding flood zones and worsening conditions in several districts. Badulla and Kandy remain the hardest-hit, each reporting 52 deaths, while Matale’s toll climbed to 18 deaths, and Kurunegala now records 19 missing persons along with 7 fatalities. Other districts such as Ampara, Nuwara Eliya, Galle, and Hambanthota continue to report scattered deaths, painting a picture of widespread national impact as rescuers face growing challenges accessing isolated communities.
Displacement figures have also risen sharply, with 34,198 families—more than 122,000 people—now sheltering in 919 safety centres nationwide. The Western, Northern, and North Western provinces remain particularly strained, with Gampaha hosting over 18,251 displaced persons, Mannar nearly 11,873, and Puttalam more than 11,221. Meanwhile, central districts continue to report escalating humanitarian needs: Rathnapura now accounts for 34,414 affected individuals, and Polonnaruwa shows a significant spike, listing 19,848 affected persons and 5,560 families in shelters. The updated figures highlight not only the geographic breadth of Cyclone Ditwa’s devastation but also the growing pressure on emergency services as the number of missing rises and more families lose access to homes, clean water, and essential supplies.
Sri Lanka Reels After Cyclone Ditwah: 151 Dead and 191 Missing
Story Updated at 18.00 PM Colombo Time: Sri Lanka is confronting a rapidly escalating humanitarian emergency as the impact of Cyclone Ditwa continues to unfold, with 153 deaths and 191 people still missing according to the latest Situation Report issued at 6:00 p.m. on 29 November 2025 . The cyclone has left 217,263 families—over 774,000 individuals—affected nationwide, marking one of the most severe natural disasters the country has faced in recent years. The scale of displacement is vast, with 27,494 families taking shelter in 798 safety centres, highlighting the extensive destruction across multiple districts.The hilly districts of Badulla and Kandy remain the worst hit, recording 52 deaths each, alongside widespread landslides and flooding that have destroyed homes and infrastructure. Badulla alone has 6,222 affected families and 42 people listed as missing, while Kandy has 7,988 affected families and 105 missing persons, reflecting the dangerous combination of persistent rainfall and unstable slopes .
Other districts such as Matale, Kegalle, Kurunegala, and Ampara have also reported significant casualties, underscoring the broad geographical reach of Cyclone Ditwa’s destructive path.Low-lying and coastal regions continue to grapple with rising waters and structural damage. The coastal belt, including Puttalam, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Mannar, and Gampaha, has reported massive displacements, with Gampaha alone recording 51,701 affected families and over 18,000 people now in safety centres . Mannar and Puttalam show similarly high levels of distress, pointing to a prolonged recovery effort ahead. While many of these districts did not report fatalities, the overwhelming number of displaced residents illustrates the severity of the flooding and storm surges.In the Northern and Eastern provinces, including Mullaitivu, Kilinochchi, Jaffna, and Vavuniya, thousands have been forced to leave their homes as floodwaters continue to rise and essential services remain disrupted. Mullaitivu has more than 1,103 families in shelters, despite reporting no deaths, while Kilinochchi and Jaffna together account for nearly 1,000 displaced families, with Jaffna experiencing one confirmed fatality .
The geographic spread of these impacts indicates a disaster affecting both urban and rural communities with little discrimination. As emergency teams work around the clock, the Disaster Management Centre warns that the situation may continue to evolve, with some missing persons feared buried under landslides or swept away by floodwaters. The government has mobilized nationwide relief operations, but accessibility challenges in mountainous and inundated regions pose ongoing difficulties. With nearly 101,000 people currently living in temporary shelters, immediate needs such as clean water, medical aid, and food supplies remain critical across the island.
Story Updated at 12.55 PM Colombo Times: The aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah has left Sri Lanka devastated, with official reports confirming 123 deaths across 12 districts and 130 people still missing as severe weather continues to wreak havoc. The Kandy District suffered the highest loss of life with 51 fatalities, followed by Badulla with 35, while several other districts reported additional casualties. According to the Disaster Management Center, nearly 44,000 individuals from more than 13,000 affected families have been displaced and relocated to 488 temporary shelters, highlighting the extensive humanitarian impact of the disaster.
Story Updated at 10. 10 AM Colombo Time: The Government of the Maldives has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, announcing an extension of humanitarian assistance that includes USD 50,000 in financial aid and a donation of 25,000 cases of tuna cans. This relief support — offered on behalf of the Maldivian people — is intended to help alleviate suffering and contribute to ongoing recovery efforts in the worst-affected areas of Sri Lanka. The gesture underlines the enduring friendship and solidarity between the peoples of the Maldives and Sri Lanka, reflecting a deep and shared commitment to mutual support in times of crisis.
Meanwhile, Dr Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Maldives, is expected to undertake his first official visit to Sri Lanka on 7 December, arriving in Colombo for a stay through 9 December. During this visit, several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed — covering broader areas of cooperation — further strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations in the wake of recent humanitarian collaboration.
Sri Lanka Faces Aftermath as Ditwah Leaves the Island with Death Toll Rising to 69
Story Updated at 9.40 AM Colombo Time: The latest report issued by the Disaster Management Centre as of 29 November 2025 at 0600 hours shows that the island-wide disaster situation has continued to intensify, with severe weather affecting 25 districts and a total of 285 Divisional Secretariat divisions. According to the updated figures, 61,175 families—amounting to 219,282 individuals—have been impacted by a combination of heavy rainfall, floods, flash floods, landslides, strong winds, lightning strikes and falling trees. The cumulative death toll has risen sharply to 69, while 34 individuals remain missing. Emergency shelters continue to expand, and the latest count confirms that 266 safe centres are now operating across the country, accommodating 5,890 families or 18,443 people.
Badulla District has recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 30 deaths resulting from widespread landslides and collapsing slopes in areas such as Lunugala, Passara, Bandarawela, Ella, Kandaketia, Haldummulla and surrounding divisions. Additional deaths were reported from several other districts, including Monaragala, Kurunegala, Nuwara Eliya, Galle, Ampara, Anuradhapura, Kandy, Matale, and Hambantota, where rising waters, sudden landslides, and falling trees caused multiple tragedies. The report notes that severe communication disruptions in heavily affected regions, especially Puttalam, have made verification of incident details more challenging, though emergency operations continue despite these limitations.
The Disaster Management Centre highlights that major rivers remain at elevated levels, with continued flood warnings in effect for river basins such as the Attanagalu Oya, Kelani Ganga, Kalu Ganga, Nilwala Ganga, Gin Ganga, Maha Oya, Yan Oya and Kumbukkan Oya. Several key reservoirs have had to open large numbers of spill gates to manage inflow, including Rajanganaya, Kalawewa, Angamuwa, Deduru Oya, Rantembe, Kukule Ganga, Lunugamwehera, Ulhitiya–Rathkinda, Pahalahungala and several others. These releases have increased downstream flood risks in districts such as Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Kurunegala, Monaragala, Hambantota and Mannar. Particularly concerning is the situation in Mannar, where the breach of the Kurai Kulam tank embankment triggered sudden flash flooding, forcing urgent evacuations.
Critical rescue operations have continued across the island, with both ground forces and air support deployed to extract people trapped by rising floodwaters. In Anuradhapura, six individuals stranded near the Asokamala school area were rescued after clinging to a tree, while another was evacuated using an Air Force MI-17 helicopter in Medawachchiya. The Air Force also carried out multiple Bell 212 helicopter rescues in Dimbulagala and Manampitiya in the Polonnaruwa District, saving several residents who were cut off by fast–rising floodwaters. In Gampaha, five individuals in Mirigama were trapped by a sudden overflow of the Ma Oya and had to be rescued urgently. Military teams have been stationed across numerous high-risk zones, including Galle, Matara, Ratnapura, Kegalle, Anuradhapura, Puttalam and Kandy, equipped with dinghies, outboard motors, buffel vehicles and search-and-rescue gear.
Road access remains one of the most severely affected components in the latest update. Multiple significant road networks have been submerged or damaged, cutting off transportation across several districts. In Ampara, routes such as Akkarapattu–Kanjankuda, Ampara–Karaitivu, and Ampara–Inginiyagala remain underwater, in some locations by up to three feet. Parts of Polonnaruwa, including the main Polonnaruwa–Batticaloa roadway from Galella to Manampitiya, have been completely closed for vehicle movement. The A9 route between Panichchiyamottai and Shanthipuram in Vavuniya has also been shut down. In Puttalam, long stretches of the Puttalam–Kurunegala and Puttalam–Colombo roads are impassable, while in Badulla several landslides have blocked key routes including the Passara–Badulla road, Miyanakola road and other rural connections. These closures have significantly hindered rescue, relief and medical transport.
The Meteorology Department’s rainfall observations included in the Disaster Management Centre’s report show extremely high rainfall during the previous 24 hours, with Nillambe in Kandy receiving 431.2 mm, one of the most intense readings so far. Heavy rainfall above 200 mm was also recorded in parts of Kegalle, Kilinochchi, Kurunegala and Nuwara Eliya. The National Building Research Organisation, referencing continued saturation of soil layers and ongoing precipitation, has issued a landslide warning covering multiple districts, with several areas placed under yellow, amber and red alert levels. Districts such as Badulla, Kegalle, Kandy, Matale, Kurunegala, Ratnapura, Monaragala and Nuwara Eliya remain at high risk of further landslides and slope failures during the next 24 hours.
The Disaster Management Centre concludes its latest report with a strong reminder that the weather system remains active and unpredictable. With reservoirs still releasing excess water, river levels continuing to rise, roads cut off and search operations ongoing, conditions could worsen over the next two days. Authorities urge residents in high–risk areas to remain vigilant, obey evacuation instructions and avoid travelling through flooded or unstable routes. Emergency teams are expected to remain deployed across all heavily impacted districts as the situation develops.
India Extends Swift Support to Sri Lanka as Cyclone Ditwah Worsens Crisis
Story Updated at 9.10 AM New Delhi Time: India has launched Operation Sagar Bandhu to support flood- and landslide-hit Sri Lanka, with the first major relief shipment arriving in Colombo on Saturday. External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar confirmed that a C-130J aircraft had airlifted roughly 12 tonnes of humanitarian aid — including tents, tarpaulins, and blankets — to Sri Lanka. The delivery underlines India’s swift response after widespread flooding and landslides triggered by Cyclone Ditwah, which have already claimed dozens of lives and displaced thousands. Earlier, two Indian naval vessels, INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri, had handed over emergency relief materials in Colombo — part of the broader HADR (humanitarian assistance and disaster relief) push. According to Sri Lankan authorities, tens of thousands of people have been impacted so far, and India says it stands ready to scale up support as needs evolve.
Story Updated at 8 AM Colombo Time: By dawn on the 29th, Cyclone Ditwah had begun moving away from Sri Lanka’s mainland, passing near Mullaitivu and shifting slightly westward, travelling parallel to Kilinochchi toward India through the northern sea area. Indian weather authorities indicated that the system was expected to reach the southern coast of India by the 30th.
Even as Ditwah moved on, its effects continued across the country.
In Nawalapitiya, continuous heavy rain had saturated the hillsides. On the 28th, a section of the slope above Old Railway Yard Road collapsed onto a house, killing a woman, her mother-in-law, and a three-month-old child. Residents and police officers worked urgently to free those trapped, but the effort ended in tragedy. The bodies were later taken to the Nawalapitiya District General Hospital.
According to Divisional Secretary Ramya Jayasundara, five deaths have now been reported in the Nawalapitiya area due to the severe weather, and nearly fifty families have been relocated to temporary shelters.
Meanwhile, conditions along the Kelani River valley worsened. With almost all spill gates of the upstream reservoirs now open, a large volume of water surged downstream, causing rapid flooding in low-lying areas. Roads disappeared beneath rising currents, and several communities became increasingly difficult to access.
Authorities continued urging residents of the five at-risk villages to move to safer locations. However, some families remained reluctant to leave their homes despite the escalating danger. The river level kept rising steadily, pushing closer to areas that had not flooded in years.
Across the affected districts, the situation remained tense as communities braced for further consequences of the storm’s aftermath.
Story Updated at 12.00 AM Colombo Time: The Department of Meteorology has issued an updated red warning late on Friday night as Cyclonic Storm Ditwah continues to intensify near Sri Lanka, prompting authorities to alert the public to a further escalation of adverse weather conditions across the island. According to the latest official bulletin issued at 11.00 p.m. on 28 November 2025, the system remains active and is expected to maintain its strength while moving north-northwestward over the next several hours. The cyclonic storm is currently centered near latitude 8.5°N and longitude 81.0°E, positioned about 40 kilometres west-northwest of Trincomalee, and continues to influence weather patterns across the country significantly.
Forecast data from regional meteorological centres indicate that Ditwah will remain a cyclonic storm as it tracks gradually northward. The storm was located at 9.1°N and 80.7°E at 11.30 p.m. on 28 November and is expected to shift to about 11.6°N and 80.4°E by 11.30 a.m. on 30 November, maintaining strong wind intensity throughout its journey. Officials warn that despite the storm drifting away from immediate proximity to Sri Lanka, its wide circulation will continue to generate severe weather over both land and sea areas until at least Saturday morning.
Continuous heavy rainfall is expected to persist across several provinces as the system remains close to the island. Cloudy skies will dominate most regions, while intermittent showers and thunderstorms are likely across the Northern, North-central, Central, North-western, and Trincomalee districts. Meteorologists caution that certain locations may experience very heavy rainfall exceeding 200 millimetres. The latest rainfall observations recorded between 8.30 a.m. and 11.00 p.m. on 28 November show extremely high accumulations in multiple districts, with Kilinochchi’s Puliyam Pokkanai station receiving 271 millimetres, Kegalle’s Dunumale Estate measuring 178.5 millimetres, and Gampaha’s Katunayake station recording 176.4 millimetres. Several stations in Mannar District also reported rainfall above 150 millimetres, highlighting the widespread impact of the storm.
In addition to the heavy rainfall, the Department warns of very strong winds, with speeds reaching 60 to 70 kilometres per hour and gusts rising to 80 to 90 kilometres per hour across many parts of the island. Such conditions significantly increase the risk of damage to property, disruption of power and communication lines, and the falling of large trees. Low-lying areas, particularly those prone to flooding or situated near major rivers, are expected to remain vulnerable, while hilly regions may face the threat of landslides due to continued saturation of soil.
Coastal and marine environments remain under severe threat as Ditwah continues to churn nearby. Sea areas surrounding Sri Lanka are forecast to experience very rough conditions, with strong winds and swell waves reaching heights of approximately 3.0 to 4.0 metres. The near-shore regions may also experience sudden surges, making coastal navigation extremely dangerous. Authorities have once again reinforced the instruction for naval and fishing communities to refrain from venturing into the sea until conditions improve and further guidance is provided.
The Department of Meteorology urges the public to continue exercising caution as adverse conditions are expected to persist until November 29 and possibly extend into November 30 depending on the movement of the storm. Residents in coastal belts, hilly terrain, and flood-prone zones are specifically encouraged to remain alert and adhere to safety directions issued by local disaster management authorities. Officials have also advised the general public to stay updated on upcoming advisories as the situation remains dynamic, with further changes likely as the storm moves northwards.
