Sri Lanka closes schools and offices as deadly floods and landslides worsen

Sri Lanka came to a standstill on Friday after authorities ordered all government offices and schools to remain closed, following days of relentless rain that has left 56 people dead till now. The worsening weather, which intensified on Thursday, led to widespread flooding across homes, roads, and farmlands, along with numerous landslides. Officials reported that more than 600 houses have already suffered damage.

The central hill districts of Badulla and Nuwara Eliya, known for their tea plantations and located nearly 300 kilometres east of Colombo, were among the hardest hit. According to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), over 25 people died in landslides in these areas, while 21 others are still missing and 14 have sustained injuries.

Cyclone Ditwah Brings More Threats

The situation remains critical as Cyclone Ditwah moves along Sri Lanka’s eastern coast. The national meteorological department has warned that certain central and northern regions could receive more than 200 mm of rainfall on Friday. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the cyclone will intensify further before making landfall in India on November 30.

Transport Disruptions and Exam Delays

Rising river levels have prompted the DMC to urge people living in low-lying zones to relocate to safer ground. A red flood alert has been issued for the Kelani River valley, including parts of Colombo, for the next 48 hours.

Massive downpours have caused reservoirs and rivers to spill over, blocking major roads. Landslides brought rocks, trees and mud onto inter-provincial routes, while some railway tracks remain submerged. With travel routes severely affected, the Railway Department cancelled all trains except essential services from Friday morning.

The weather has also disrupted education, forcing authorities to postpone the Advanced Level (A-level) examinations.

Large-Scale Rescue Operations Underway

To support the worsening situation, nearly 20,500 army personnel have been deployed nationwide for rescue and relief missions. Local televised footage showed an Air Force helicopter airlifting three individuals who had taken shelter on a rooftop surrounded by floodwaters. Navy and police teams have also been using boats to evacuate stranded residents.

In another tragic incident, video clips from Ampara captured a car being washed away by surging waters, resulting in the deaths of all three occupants.

As Cyclone Ditwah continues to influence weather patterns, Sri Lanka remains on high alert, preparing for more rainfall and possible escalation of the crisis.

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