Colombo: The death toll from the devastating floods in Sri Lanka has risen to 334, with an additional 370 individuals reported missing, as confirmed by the country's Disaster Management Center. The calamity, which has gripped the island nation since severe weather conditions struck on November 17, continues to wreak havoc.
According to Anadolu Agency, search and rescue operations are actively underway in regions afflicted by floods, landslides, and widespread destruction. The impact of Cyclone Ditwah, which made landfall on Wednesday, has affected approximately 1.12 million people, spanning 309,607 families across Sri Lanka.
As reported by News 1st, the nation has established 1,275 relief centers, currently housing 180,499 displaced individuals. The military is engaged in both aerial and ground operations to rescue those trapped, while relief teams are coordinating the distribution of essential supplies such as food, water, and medical aid.
In a related incident, the Daily Mirror reported a Sri Lankan Air Force helicopter involved in disaster relief efforts crashed on Sunday. Fortunately, all crew members were rescued and transported to a hospital.
According to Ada Derana, educational institutions, including universities and vocational training centers, will remain closed until December 8, as directed by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake declared a state of emergency on Saturday in response to the extensive damage inflicted by Cyclone Ditwah, as per the Daily Mirror. The government is appealing to both Sri Lankans abroad and foreign nationals to contribute to the ongoing relief efforts.
High-risk flood alerts have been issued for several major rivers, urging residents in downstream areas to evacuate immediately. Additionally, over 20,000 military personnel have been deployed for rescue operations, the Daily Mirror noted.
A red alert landslide warning remains in effect for eight high-risk districts, posing a significant threat to hillside communities and vulnerable zones.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department has issued a red warning for southeastern regions of India, including north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and the adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts, according to All India Radio.