Post by : Raina
Al-Fahim
Sri Lanka is experiencing widespread destruction after Cyclone Ditwah made landfall on Friday, resulting in at least 46 casualties and 23 individuals unaccounted for, as reported by emergency authorities. This Sri Lankan cyclone unleashed torrential rains surpassing 300mm within a mere 24 hours, triggering dangerous landslides and extensive flooding, primarily impacting the eastern and central sectors.
The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) stated that approximately 44,000 residents have been relocated to educational institutions and public shelters due to rapidly rising water levels. Many people, trapped atop roofs, were rescued overnight as emergency teams maneuvered through treacherous weather conditions.
Authorities confirmed ongoing closure of schools and suspension of train operations in affected regions. The early trading at the Colombo Stock Exchange was halted due to the relentless heavy downpours caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
Brigadier S. Dharmawickrema, the Emergency Operations Director at the DMC, mentioned that rescue teams are tirelessly engaged, but reaching several villages has become extraordinarily challenging. “Roadways are obstructed by landslides and debris. Certain areas are entirely isolated, yet we are striving to bring people to safety,” he told Reuters.
As the Sri Lankan storm intensifies, government officials have cautioned that conditions may deteriorate further in the next 12 hours. The Ports and Civil Aviation Ministry indicated that flights may need to be redirected from Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport to Trivandrum or Cochin in India if circumstances worsen. Reports from local media have indicated that flights from Muscat, Dubai, New Delhi, and Bangkok have already been changed.
Residents are being advised to remain indoors, avoid flooded regions, and adhere to guidance from officials as Sri Lanka's rescue operations continue nationwide. With the storm still active, officials are apprehensive that the death toll may rise if heavy rains persist.
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