Cyclone Ditwah Ravages Sri Lanka: Death Toll Rises Amid Widespread Flooding

Cyclone Ditwah has slammed into Sri Lanka, leaving a trail of destruction. The storm has killed at least 46 people and displaced tens of thousands. Rescue teams are working against time to find 23 individuals still missing.Authorities confirm this is one of the worst weather events in recent memory. The military has been deployed for large-scale relief operations across affected regions.

Landslides and Flooding Cause Widespread Damage

Heavy rains triggered a major landslide in Badulla district. This single event killed 21 people as it swept through homes overnight. The Disaster Management Centre reported over 300 mm of rain fell in just one day.More than 43,000 people have been moved to emergency shelters. Many were rescued from rooftops as floodwaters rapidly rose. According to Reuters, a red-level flood warning is active for the Kelani River valley.Key roads remain closed and most train services are cancelled. The Colombo Stock Exchange halted trading early due to the severe conditions. Schools across the region are closed indefinitely.

International Response and Ongoing Rescue Efforts

India has launched relief operations under “Operation Sagar Bandhu.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and offered further assistance. Indian naval ships have already delivered aid to Colombo.Nearly 20,500 army personnel are conducting rescue missions. A military helicopter in Anuradhapura airlifted a man who spent the night in a coconut tree. Brigadier S. Dharmawickrema told Reuters that some villages are completely cut off by landslides.Flight diversions have affected air travel in the region. Six international flights were rerouted to other airports. Sri Lankan officials warn the storm could still intensify in the coming hours.

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The devastation from Cyclone Ditwah underscores the growing intensity of regional weather patterns. Recovery efforts will likely continue for weeks as communities assess the full damage from this powerful storm.

Thought you’d like to know

What does the name “Ditwah” mean?

The name was contributed by Yemen. It refers to the Detwah Lagoon on Socotra Island. This lagoon is known for its unique coastal ecosystem.

Which areas in Tamil Nadu are under alert?

The IMD issued a yellow alert for several districts. These include Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, and Thoothukkudi. Kanyakumari and Tirunelveli are also affected.

How many people have been affected?

Over 43,991 people have been displaced from their homes. They are currently staying in schools and public shelters. The death toll stands at 46 with 23 still missing.

What is India doing to help?

India has sent relief materials under Operation Sagar Bandhu. INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri have delivered aid. More assistance is ready if Sri Lanka requests it.

Why is this cyclone particularly severe?

It brought an unprecedented amount of rainfall. Some areas received over 300 mm in 24 hours. This caused sudden landslides and flash flooding.